Crime & Courts
News
Gillette Man Accused Of Shooting Half-Sister In The Face To Face Murder Trial
A Gillette man accused of killing his half-sister last week when he allegedly shot her in the face was in court Thursday, but not for long. He waived a preliminary hearing and will face a murder trial.
Jen KocherJanuary 30, 2025
Wyoming Trainer Helps With Rescue Of 86 Neglected Morgan Horses In Montana
When a Montana horse breeder allegedly stopped caring for his herd of Morgans, a pair of ranch hands alerted authorities. A Wyoming trainer has been part of the rescue effort to save 86 neglected Morgans.
David MadisonJanuary 30, 2025
Wyoming Man Faces 548 Years In Prison Over Disturbing Child Porn Allegations
A Reliance, Wyoming, man is facing a half-millennium in prison on claims he kept and transferred disturbing child-sex pictures and videos. He pleaded not guilty to 31 of the 54 charges against him Wednesday.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 30, 2025
Eight Wyoming Sheriffs Seeing Mystery Drones Still Have No Answers
The White House says the drones over New Jersey last year were authorized. But that doesn't explain what multiple Wyoming sheriffs who reached out to Cowboy State Daily say they're seeing over power plants and oil fields.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 29, 2025
Fake "Bitcoin Billionaire" Cheated Jackson Businesses Out Of $212K, Prosecutors Say
Passing himself off as a "bitcoin billionaire," a 30-year-old California man was able to cheat Jackson, Wyoming, businesses out of nearly $212,000 for resort stays, bar tabs and a new Dodge Ram, prosecutors allege.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 29, 2025
Casper Teen Who Said “I Hope I Killed One” After Shooting At Homes Pleads Guilty
A 15-year-old Casper boy who reportedly told friends “I hope I killed one” pleaded guilty Wednesday to shooting a 10 mm pistol into two homes in August. He faces up to 10 years in prison.
Dale KillingbeckJanuary 29, 2025
Cheyenne Woman Accused Of Stabbing Husband, Who Died After Refusing Treatment
A Cheyenne woman accused of stabbing her husband now faces a murder charge after he died four days later, the Cheyenne Police Department reported Tuesday. The alleged victim initially refused treatment at the scene.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 28, 2025
Transient Pleads Guilty To Breaking Laramie Woman’s Face
A transient man accused of breaking his ex-girlfriend’s face after she asked him to leave her home pleaded guilty Monday in a Laramie courthouse. David Leyba, 60, evaded arrest for nearly a year after the attack.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 27, 2025
Feds Raid Denver Party, Arrest 49 Illegal Immigrants; Investigations Ongoing In Wyoming
Federal agents on Sunday raided a private party in southeast Denver and arrested 49 illegal aliens including alleged members of Tren de Aragua. Agents say investigations are ongoing in Wyoming.
Jen KocherJanuary 27, 2025
How A Budding Gillette Baseball Star And Marine Became A Pedophile Hunter
Chris McDonald grew up in Gillette and planned on a career in baseball. Then duty called and he became a Marine in Operation Desert Strom. Now he’s a pedophile hunter, leading DCI’s Internet Crimes Against Children division.
Jen KocherJanuary 26, 2025
Casper Man Caught Fleeing With 14-Year-Old Gets 37-45 Years
A Casper, Wyoming, man caught transporting a minor across state lines with intent to engage in sex acts faces 37-45 years in federal prison. The then-36-year-old was caught with his 14-year-old victim in Arizona.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 25, 2025
4 Fired In Wake Of 88-Year-Old Found Dead Outside Gillette Assisted Living Center
Four people working at a Gillette, Wyoming, assisted living center have been fired in the wake of an 88-year-old resident there being found dead in an outside courtyard Jan. 10. The terminations were announced Thursday.
Jen KocherJanuary 24, 2025
Locals Remember Thermopolis Woman Killed In Hit-And-Run As "Remarkable"
Bernie Blacketer was a "remarkable" woman whose death is a blow to the town of Thermopolis, Wyoming, the town's mayor said Friday after Blacketer was killed in a hit-and-run. Blacketer would be "preaching forgiveness" over the incident, the mayor said.
Clair McFarland & Jackie DorothyJanuary 24, 2025
Thermopolis Police Say They Found Driver In Hit-And-Run That Killed Pedestrian
A pedestrian was struck and killed Friday morning by a driver in Thermopolis, Wyoming, who didn’t stop to help after the collision, authorities say. Authorities announced Friday morning they'd found the driver.
Clair McFarland & Jackie DorothyJanuary 24, 2025
Former Wyoming Police Chief Accused Of Helping Girlfriend Elude Cops Arrested Again
The former Manderson, Wyoming, police chief is in trouble again, accused of violating a judge’s order and texting a woman investigators say he helped elude a drug investigation. He bonded out of jail Tuesday.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 24, 2025
Montana Pastor Used His “Karate Lessons” To Sexually Assault At Least One Child
A small-town Montana church pastor was convicted last week of sexually assaulting a child and has been accused of another. He used the self-defense “karate lessons” he taught to get close enough to abuse his victims, court documents say.
David MadisonJanuary 23, 2025
Cheyenne Teen Cops Plea, Could Get 10 Years For Pistol-Whipping And Shooting
A 19-year-old Cheyenne teen admitted pistol-whipping one person and threating others with a gun Thursday. In a plea deal, he could get up to 10 years in prison, or he could get Boot Camp.
Dale KillingbeckJanuary 23, 2025
Green River Man Walks Into Sheriff’s Office, Admits Molesting Child 30 Years Ago
A 72-year-old Green River, Wyoming, man walked into his local sheriff's office, said he "needed to confess" and told a detective he sexually abused a child 30 years ago, court documents say. He now faces up to 25 years in prison.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 23, 2025
Man Shoots Coworker, Then Gives First Aid, Natrona County Sheriff Says
Natrona County deputies are investigating a shooting at a business Wednesday night that sent a man to the hospital in reportedly critical condition. The coworker who allegedly shot the man also gave him first aid, the sheriff’s office reports.
Dale KillingbeckJanuary 23, 2025
Wyoming Public Defender Held In Contempt Fights Charge, Quits
A Wyoming public defender quit his job last fall after a judge held him in contempt and fined him for being late to a hearing. In an ongoing public defender shortage, the attorney is fighting the charge, saying he was held up at another hearing.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 23, 2025
Report: “Give Me A Hug Now,” Gillette Man Tells Mom After Shooting Sister In Head
A Gillette, Wyoming, man has been charged with second-degree murder on claims he killed his sister. Police report that after he shot his sister in the head, he told his mother, “Give me a hug, because I am going to jail.”
Clair McFarland & Jen KocherJanuary 22, 2025
Gillette Woman Shot Multiple Times, Dies At Hospital, Police Say
A 33-year-old Gillette, Wyoming, woman who was shot multiple times Monday evening died at the local hospital, police report. A man who was at the home was arrested and identified as the shooter, but he and the victim aren’t being identified yet.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 21, 2025
Wyoming Wants To Take $54K From 79-Year-Old Man Caught With 0.3 Grams Of Cocaine
The Wyoming Supreme Court is considering whether the state can keep $54,226 in suspected drug money. The money was taken during a traffic stop of a 79-year-old Wamsutter man who was found with 0.3 grams of cocaine.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 21, 2025
Wyoming Man Who Worked 15 Years To Free Leonard Peltier Calls Commutation “Bittersweet”
Joe Biden commuted the two consecutive life sentences of Leonard Peltier on Monday. Wyoming filmmaker Preston Randolph, who worked 15 years to free Peltier from prison, said he’s "happy but bittersweet” with the decision.
Andrew RossiJanuary 20, 2025
Jury Hung In Murder Trial Of Lander Man Accused Of Killing House Guest
A trial jury could not come to unanimous decision Monday on whether a Lander man killed a house guest with a metal bar, or whether he did so but was too mentally ill to rationalize what he was doing. The prosecutor in the case promises to try again.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 20, 2025
Wyoming Prosecutors Say Widespread Lawyer Shortage Hurting Them Too
A shortage of Wyoming prosecutors has spread across the state. County and district attorneys are thinking up ways to recruit and retain new lawyers — just in time for the legislative session.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 19, 2025
Cody Filmmaker A Producer For Documentary Premiering At Sundance Film Festival
A Cody, Wyoming, filmmaker is a coproducer for the documentary “Free Leonard Peltier," which will debut next week at the Sundance Film Festival. The film examines the case of the American Indian activist convicted of killing two FBI agents in 1975.
Andrew RossiJanuary 19, 2025
Family Grows More Desperate To Find Lander Man Missing More Than A Month
The family of a Lander, Wyoming, man missing more than a month is growing more desperate to find him. His car was found in Utah, but there’s no other trace of Brent Layman.
Jen KocherJanuary 19, 2025
Big Horn ATF Raid Eerily Similar To "Clown Show" In 2002, Former Sheriff Says
A former Sublette County Sheriff says an ATF raid on a couple in Big Horn, Wyoming, mirrors a 2002 incident in his county. He says his office was misled by the federal agency and calls the response a “clown show.”
Mark HeinzJanuary 18, 2025
Judge Acquits Gillette Broker Accused Of Forging Signatures To Scam Commissions
A Gillette, Wyoming, real estate broker who was accused of forging people’s signatures on real estate documents to scam extra commissions was acquitted by a judge Thursday.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 18, 2025
Casper Man Who Said He Had 1,000 Child Porn Pics To Help Police Pleads Not Guilty
A 59-year-old Casper man who DCI investigators linked to more than 1,000 images and video of child pornography pleaded not guilty. Thursday. He also allegedly told investigators he collected the porn to help police.
Dale KillingbeckJanuary 16, 2025
88-Year-Old Patient Found Dead Outside Gillette Assisted Living Center
Gillette, Wyoming, police confirmed Thursday they are investigating the death of an 88-year-old assisted living patient found dead outside in a courtyard of the Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center. A cause of death hasn’t been released.
Jen KocherJanuary 16, 2025
Missing Green River Pilot Found Dead In Crash Near Rock Springs
Search crews that have scoured a mountainous region of Sweetwater County, Wyoming, for a missing pilot and plane since Tuesday afternoon found the pilot dead amid signs of a plane crash Wednesday afternoon.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 15, 2025
Montana Fitness Guru Faces Jail For Selling Unapproved Drugs To Fight Man Boobs
A Montana fitness-based business owner faces jail time for illegally selling bodybuilding drugs that fight "man boobs." He pleaded guilty to selling drugs not approved by the FDA, says the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana.
David MadisonJanuary 15, 2025
"Ground Disturbance" Found Near Rock Springs Could Be Missing Plane
Authorities are searching an area near Little Mountain southwest of Rock Springs for a missing Wyoming man and his plane where a “ground disturbance” has been found. The plane went missing Tuesday and a night-searching helicopter deployed that evening.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 15, 2025
Intensive Search On For Missing Wyoming Pilot And Plane Near Rock Springs
Sweetwater County authorities are searching for a Wyoming pilot and plane that left an airport outside Rock Springs on Tuesday morning and never landed in California as planned. Weather and rough terrain forced the search to suspend in the evening.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 15, 2025
Authorities Say Woman Taped Man To Chair, Tortured Him For Three Days
Campbell County Sheriff’s investigators say a woman in Wright, Wyoming, taped a man to a chair at her home and tortured him for three days. She bit his ears, and beat him with a hammer and a pistol, court documents allege.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 15, 2025
Candidates Challenge "Sore Loser" Law That Keeps Primary Losers From Running Again
The Wyoming Supreme Court is considering the constitutionality of the state’s “sore loser" law, which bars failed primary-election candidates from running as independents in general elections. Three candidates are challenging the law.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 14, 2025
Casper Man Accused Of Stabbing Two People, Tells Police One Was An Accident
A 71-year-old Casper man faces two felonies after police claim he stabbed a 35-year-old woman and 41-year-old man at his apartment Sunday. He allegedly said stabbing the woman was an “accident.”
Dale KillingbeckJanuary 14, 2025
Armed Man Steals Beef Jerky, Cash From Rawlins Convenience Store
An apparently hungry masked man brandishing a handgun stole beef jerky from a Rawlins Stinker convenience store on Monday. He also took cash from the register, then vanished.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 14, 2025
Lander Man Claims He Was Delusional When He Killed Visitor With A Piece Of Rebar
A jury trial began Monday for a Lander, Wyoming, man accused of killing a visitor by bashing his head in with a piece of rebar. He claims he was delusional and reacting to a sexual advance when he attacked the other man.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 14, 2025
Supreme Court Won't Hear Utah's Case To Get Control Of Federal Lands
The U.S. Supreme Court announced Monday it won't take up Utah's case to get control of federal lands in that state, a push Wyoming supported. Gov. Mark Gordon says he's "disappointed but not surprised."
Andrew RossiJanuary 13, 2025
Man Accused Of Disfiguring Girlfriend Claims Judge Illegally “Interrogated” Him
A Wyoming man accused of beating and disfiguring his girlfriend wants evidence against him in a separate case thrown out. He claims a lower-court judge illegally “interrogated” him, but in a Friday filing the prosecutor says he's wrong.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 13, 2025
Wyoming Woman Charged With Impersonating Police Officer While Boarding Plane
A Shoshoni, Wyoming, woman is accused of impersonating a police officer while trying to get onto an airplane in Riverton. Wearing a security officer badge on her waist, she allegedly claimed she was transporting DNA evidence for the FBI.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 13, 2025
Duck Hunter Pleads Guilty To Killing Friend, Could Get Probation
A Wyoming college student who unintentionally killed his friend while duck hunting pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter Thursday. He also has a chance for probation and a sentence that keeps him from being a convicted felon.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 13, 2025
Wyoming Supreme Court Considers Whether Cops Can Search Your Lawyer
The Wyoming Supreme Court is considering if or how law enforcement agents can search criminal defense attorneys, their offices and potentially their homes.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 12, 2025
Firetrucks, Other Equipment Burn Up In Blaze At Cheyenne Fire Station
Cheyenne firefighters were dispatched to one of their own fire stations that was gutted by a fire Saturday night. The building was severely damaged, and several firetrucks and other equipment burned up.
Greg JohnsonJanuary 12, 2025
California Couple Builds House In Glacier National Park Without Permission
A California couple built a house inside Glacier National Park in late 2022 without permission or permits. Now they’re suing to keep officials from tearing the house down.
David MadisonJanuary 12, 2025
Jackson Cocaine Kingpin Sentenced To More Than 6 Years In Prison
A Jamaican transplant to Jackson, Wyoming, was sentenced to 80 months in prison Thursday for running a large-scale cocaine network in Teton County. He was accused of selling at least 10 kilos of cocaine that netted him more than $400,000.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 10, 2025
Wyoming Sheriffs Team Up With ICE To Fight Illegal Immigration
At least three Wyoming sheriffs say they are seeking contracts or agreements with the federal government to detain and question immigrants wanted by ICE for suspected immigration violations.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 10, 2025
Federal Judge Strikes Down Biden's Transgender Education Rules
A federal judge Thursday struck down President Joe Biden’s mandate that schools give transgender students access to cross-sex bathrooms and other rules. The Wyoming Freedom Caucus hailed the decision as a “common sense ruling” against “the predations of the radical left.”
Clair McFarlandJanuary 09, 2025
Gillette Teen Caught In Snapchat Sting Asking Kids For Nude Pics Gets 8-10 Years
A Gillette 19-year-old who pleaded guilty to trying to seduce multiple underage targets was sentenced last week to eight to 10 years in prison. He was originally caught by a pair of 15-year-olds who set up a fake Snapchat account.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 09, 2025
Wyoming Sheep Shearer Won’t Get New Murder Trial Despite Taboo Evidence
A sheep shearer who stabbed her boyfriend to death in Lincoln County, Wyoming, won’t get a new trial despite prosecutors using taboo evidence against her. In a Wednesday ruling, the Wyoming Supreme Court said the murder case was strong enough without it.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 09, 2025
No-Show Contractor Could Get 100 Years In Prison For Scamming Lusk Residents
A Michigan contractor accused of scamming people in Lusk out of hundreds of thousands of dollars had his case elevated to felony-level court Monday. If convicted, he could get 100 years of prison time.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 08, 2025
Cody Woman Nearly Dies After Someone Spiked Her Drink With Antifreeze
A Cody, Wyoming, woman went into seizures and spent nearly a week in a hospital after being given a drink spiked with antifreeze on New Year’s Eve. Her mother says it’s a painful lesson not to accept drinks from strangers.
Leo WolfsonJanuary 08, 2025
Laramie County Sheriff At It Again: Puts Red Neon Vacancy Sign Over Jail
Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak is always trying something unique. This time, Kozak has put up a red neon vacancy sign over the county jail to remind everyone they are “open for business.”
Clair McFarlandJanuary 08, 2025
Wrong-Way Driver Who Killed Five In Fiery Wyoming Crash Dies In Prison
The wrong-way driver whose meth-fueled crash killed five young people in a fiery crash on Interstate 80 near Sinclair, Wyoming, in 2023 died in prison Tuesday. His case was unique, as the father of two of his victims forgave him and prayed for him relentlessly.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 08, 2025
Private Attorneys Say Being Forced To Be Public Defenders Could Cripple Them
A public defender shortage in northeast Wyoming could financially cripple private attorney's firms if they’re forced to take public defense cases, some lawyers told Cowboy State Daily this week. They urge lawmakers to fix the shortage.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 07, 2025
Suspect Running Over Tablet Didn’t Get Rid Of 7,000 Alleged Child Porn Pics
A Torrington man "unintentionally" ran over a tablet suspected of having 7,000 child porn files on it, court documents say. Then a woman stole it. Agents were still able to access the device, and the man now could face up to 10 years in prison.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 07, 2025
Riverton Man Gets 7-15 Years For Beating Drinking Buddy, Leaving Him To Freeze To Death
Quinn Adam Duran of Riverton has been sentenced to between seven and 15 years in prison for the beating death of a drinking buddy, William Yellowrobe Sr. Prosecutors said Duran left Yellowrobe outside a church in freezing weather, where the man died.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 06, 2025
Driver Totals WYDOT Snowplow Blade By Plowing Into It
A driver who plowed into a WYDOT snowplow on U.S. Highway 14 near Dayton on Friday got minor injuries and a ticket from the Highway Patrol. The driver’s insurance company will get a call about the $26,000 it will cost to replace the destroyed blade.
Andrew RossiJanuary 06, 2025
Stolen Winnebago Throws Sparks 50 Feet While Chased Through Cheyenne
A 44-year-old Cheyenne man was arrested Sunday, accused of running from the law in a stolen Winnebago with its tires shredded by spike strips. Video shows the RV throwing sparks 50 feet behind it while driving at high speeds through the city.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 06, 2025
Feds Say July 4 Yellowstone Shooter Ranted About Non-Whites And “Race-Traitors”
A federal civil court filing released Friday said the Yellowstone concession worker who was killed in a July 4 shootout with rangers ranted about hating non-whites and “race-traitors.” It also called the man’s attempt at mass killing an act of terrorism.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 06, 2025
Wyoming Judge Who Went To Prison For Drugs Reinstated To Practice Law
A Wyoming woman who went from being a tribal court judge, to a prison inmate, to an outspoken recovery mentor for addicts was reinstated Thursday to practice law in Wyoming. Terri Smith said she hopes her story can help to others struggling with addiction.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 05, 2025
Lander Skier Killed In Avalanche On Togwotee Pass
An avalanche killed a Lander, Wyoming, man who was skiing Saturday on Togwotee Pass. Teton County Coroner Brent Blue told Cowboy State Daily that Kenneth Goff was identified as the skier.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 05, 2025
Lawyer Shortage Means Some Wyoming Defendants May Not Get Public Defenders
Unless a lawyer shortage eases, the Wyoming Public Defender’s Office will stop representing defendants charged with misdemeanors in northeast Wyoming. In a Thursday letter, three local judges urge private attorneys to take those cases.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 03, 2025
Gillette Man’s Mom Says He Didn’t Kidnap Woman During 100 MPH Joyride
The mother of a Gillette, Wyoming, man who is facing a felony kidnapping charge for allegedly holding a woman in a car while driving 80-100 mph around town said Friday he’s completely innocent.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 03, 2025
Former Montana Official Accused Of Using State Money For Tattoo, Divorce And Rent
Montana’s top official responsible for preserving historic sites is accused of stealing up to $300,000 in a kickback scheme. He allegedly used the money to get a tattoo, pay his divorce fees, take a fishing trip and rent a condo.
David MadisonJanuary 03, 2025
Wyoming Troopers Say Truckers Are Printing Off Fake License Plates
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers stopped two men in separate incidents last week, arresting them on suspicion of using fraudulent Indiana state license plates. Authorities allege the men worked together to print off fake plates using a mobile printer.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 03, 2025
Prosecutor Clears Cheyenne Cops Who Killed Man Who Took Wife Hostage
Laramie County’s top prosecutor said Thursday she won’t pursue charges against the Cheyenne Police Department officers who shot and killed a man who took his wife hostage. The man also shot at cops during standoff.
Clair McFarlandJanuary 02, 2025
Drunken Beer Run Allegedly Ends With Casper Man Pulling Gun, Calling 911
A 35-year-old Casper man is accused of pulling a gun on another couple after hitting them while on a drunken beer run. Court records made available Thursday allege he pointed a gun in a woman’s face and at her boyfriend.
Dale KillingbeckJanuary 02, 2025
Video Of Rodeo Horse From Cheyenne Drowning In Montana Triggers Investigation
A horse from Cheyenne was bought by a Montana college rodeo rider, but drowned in a pond before they got to compete together. A disturbing video of the drowning posted last week has infuriated locals, triggered an investigation and prompted demands for justice.
David MadisonJanuary 01, 2025
Suspected Drive-By Shooter Charged With Attempted Murder Refuses To Go To Court
A suspected drive-by shooter charged with attemted first-degree murder refused to go to court Tuesday. He's accused of shooting at someone at a house, then leading police on a chase before a tire on his SUV fell off.
Clair McFarlandDecember 31, 2024
Douglas Man Who Survived Cop Shooting Facing Four Felonies
A Douglas, Wyoming, man accused of threatening people with a pistol until a police officer shot him in the hip advanced to felony court Monday. Court documents allege that while drunk in October, Brian Williams pointed a .45-caliber handgun at a police officer.
Clair McFarlandDecember 31, 2024
Fremont County Man Accused Of Raping Woman So She'd Be His Kid "Donor"
A 23-year-old Fremont County man is accused of raping his girlfriend’s friend so she would be the “donor” of a child he can’t have, federal court documents say. He was charged Monday with felonies that could land him prison for life.
Clair McFarlandDecember 31, 2024
Rock Springs First Grader Saves Diabetic Grandma He Thought Had “Died”
A Rock Springs, Wyoming, first grader saved his grandmother’s life this month by getting himself to school and reporting that his grandmother had “died.” Fortunately, she wasn’t dead and had just become unconscious from low blood sugar.
Clair McFarlandDecember 31, 2024
Rock Springs Couple Facing Centuries In Prison On Child Group Sex Claims
A Rock Springs couple are facing charges that add up to centuries in prison after Rock Springs police say they sexually abused and involved a teenage girl in sex acts with themselves and others for more than a year.
Clair McFarlandDecember 30, 2024
Suspected Cheyenne Shooter Tries To Get Away Until Wheel Falls Off SUV
A Cheyenne man has been charged with attempted murder for allegedly shooting at someone in a Friday night drive-by. Police say he tried to get away, until a wheel fell off the SUV he was driving.
Clair McFarlandDecember 30, 2024
Stabbings, Shootings And Two Murders: Casper Teen Violence Hit New Level In 2024
Teen violence hit a new level in Casper, Wyoming, in 2024. It started with the stabbing murder of a 14-year-old, and didn’t let up. Another murder, two more shootings, another stabbing and other incidents followed.
Dale KillingbeckDecember 29, 2024
Daring, Dangerous Undercover Operations Bust Up Cartel-Run Sex Trafficking
In a daring and dangerous move, the director of a Las Vegas nonprofit went undercover to infiltrate cartel-run sex trafficking networks. Working with law enforcement, the operation has rescued many young victims kidnapped in Mexico and the U.S.
Jen KocherDecember 28, 2024
Opponents Want To Stop $500M Wyoming Wind Farm, Say It Will Kill Eagles And Bats
A group of opponents of the long-embattled Rail Tie wind project in southern Wyoming is asking a judge to halt a crucial step in the $500 million development. They say the huge 675-foot turbines will slaughter eagles and bats.
Clair McFarlandDecember 28, 2024
Wyoming Man Faces Felonies After Tricking Prosecutors Into Charging Wrong Guy
An Arapaho, Wyoming, man accused of trying to cash a fraudulent $33,000 check now faces more felony charges, on claims he tricked prosecutors into charging someone else in his place.
Clair McFarlandDecember 27, 2024
Pickup Plows Into Wyoming Highway Plow Truck In Ten Sleep Canyon
A slow-moving Ford Ranger plowed into the blade of a WYDOT plow truck in on U.S. Highway 16 in Ten Sleep Canyon on Thursday. The huge Wyoming state plow truck was undamaged. While the driver of the pickup was OK, his truck wasn’t so lucky.
Andrew RossiDecember 27, 2024
Two Yellowstone Snow Coaches Drive Off Road Near Mammoth Hot Springs
Two snow coaches traveling in Yellowstone National Park lost traction and drove off the same patch of road this week. The National Park Service and Xanterra, the park's hotel concessionaire, say both crashes were caused by icy conditions.
Andrew RossiDecember 26, 2024
Cheyenne Teen’s Christmas High Speed Chase In Stolen Car Ends With Crash Into Tree
A 16-year-old Cheyenne teen offender on furlough from jail is accused of stealing his mother’s car and leading police on a high-speed chase. After covering more than 100 miles, the chase ended when the teen crashed into a tree near Wheatland, Wyoming.
Greg JohnsonDecember 26, 2024
Cheyenne Porch Pirate Caught On Camera Grinching A 5-Year-Old’s Christmas
Porch pirates just seem to keep getting more and more bold. But people are fighting back with door cameras, drop boxes and pranks like putting old junk in new boxes. That didn't stop one Grinch from stealing a Cheyenne 5-year-old's Christmas.
Renée JeanDecember 24, 2024
Not Taking Dying Toddler To The ER Is Child Abuse, High Court Rules
A Cody, Wyoming, woman who got life in prison for not taking a dying toddler to the hospital lost her appeal to the Wyoming Supreme Court on Friday. The court ruled that failing to get medical attention for the girl as she died is child abuse.
Clair McFarlandDecember 23, 2024
How Neighbors Teamed Up With Wyoming Sheriff To Get Drug House Demolished
Residents in a Laramie County subdivision said they felt terrorized by squatters who had moved into an abandoned home and turned it into a drug house. It took months of collaboration with local officials but got it successfully torn down.
Renée JeanDecember 23, 2024
Campbell County K-9 Bites Car Chase Suspect Who Said Feds Controlled His Mind
Benjamin Ray Larson led Campbell County Sheriff’s officers on a chase this month and didn’t surrender until officers deployed a K-9 to force him to comply with orders, state troopers report. The K-9 bit Larson, who also claimed the feds had taken over his mind.
Clair McFarlandDecember 23, 2024
Accused Of Stealing Steak And Hot Dogs, Wyoming Woman Could Get 20 Years
Kimberly Duran, 32, of Ethete, Wyoming, faces up to 20 years in prison on claims she stole steak, hot dogs, house slippers and other things from the Riverton Walmart. She's been convicted of theft 21 times prior and is scheduled for court Friday.
Clair McFarlandDecember 23, 2024
They're Not Playing Games, These Wyoming Cops Use Virtual Reality To Train
Virtual reality is good for more than playing the latest video games. Wyoming law enforcement agencies are using the technology to run cutting-edge training programs.
Clair McFarlandDecember 21, 2024
Settlement Allows Calif. Company To Build 175-Foot Cell Tower Outside Yellowstone
Officials in Park County, Wyoming, on Wednesday stopped fighting a California cellphone company that sued to build a nearly 200-foot-tall tower outside Yellowstone National Park. A settlement allows a 175-foot tower to be built next year.
Clair McFarlandDecember 21, 2024
Off-Duty Gillette Cop Spots Stolen Gun While Scrolling Online
An off-duty Gillette police officer scrolling gun sales online spotted a pistol reported stolen six weeks earlier. That led a 19-year-old Wyoming man who had that gun and other stolen weapons. He was charged Thursday with multiple felonies.
Clair McFarlandDecember 20, 2024
Feds Grab Suspected Venezuelan Gang Member From Cheyenne Jail
Federal immigration authorities took custody Friday of an illegal immigrant the local sheriff suspects of being in a Venezuelan gang. The man had just been released from a five-month jail sentence in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Clair McFarlandDecember 20, 2024
Casper Teen Who Said Stabbing Victim “Walked Into The Blade” Pleads Not Guilty
A 17-year-old Casper girl pleaded not guilty in Natrona County District Court on Friday to the Halloween stabbing of another 17-year-old girl. She reportedly told police afterward that the other girl “walked into the blade.”
Dale KillingbeckDecember 20, 2024
Brief: No Arrests — And No Hunt For Suspects — After Deadly Riverton Stabbing
Investigators looking into a fatal stabbing Sunday night in Riverton said they have identified and interviewed people involved but have not made an arrest. They're still investigating, the local undersheriff says.
Clair McFarlandDecember 19, 2024
Man Who Racked Up 7-Foot-Long List Of Citations During Chase Gets Six Months
A Saratoga, Wyoming, man who racked up a 7-foot-long list of citations during a wild chase with a Carbon County Sheriff's Office sergeant got six months in jail last week. That included being ticketed for littering when his tailgate whipped off.
Clair McFarlandDecember 19, 2024
Casper Man Who Killed Accused Child Molester Won’t Sue Over Amputated Toe
A Casper, Wyoming, man who killed his granddaughter’s alleged molester four years ago has withdrawn a lawsuit over his toe being amputated in prison. He claimed prison doctors mistreating a wound resulted in losing a toe.
Clair McFarlandDecember 19, 2024
Minnesota Hunter Who Mistook Moose For Elk In Bighorns Apologizes
A Minnesota hunter who shot a moose with no antlers thinking it was a cow elk wrote a heartfelt apology to the Sheridan Circuit Court last week. He was fined $1,000 and sentenced to one year of probation.
Clair McFarlandDecember 19, 2024
Cheyenne Men Accused Of Stealing Woman's Woodstove From Her Home
A Cheyenne transient and an accomplice are accused of ripping the wood-burning stove out of a woman’s house and driving away with it. They left behind a trail of ash, court documents say.
Clair McFarlandDecember 18, 2024
Ex-Casper Police Officer Pleads Not Guilty To Shooting At Deputies During Standoff
A former Casper Police Officer pleaded not guilty Wednesday to multiple felony charges stemming from a 17-hour standoff in August. He reportedly shot at and threatened to kill deputies during the incident.
Dale KillingbeckDecember 18, 2024
Gillette Man Says He Didn’t Realize What He Was Doing When He Allegedly Stabbed Wife
A Gillette man accused of stabbing his wife repeatedly says he wasn’t mentally well enough to rationalize his conduct at the time, according to a court transcript filed Monday. “I’ll always love you. I’m sorry I stabbed you,” he reportedly told her.
Clair McFarlandDecember 18, 2024
Other Wyoming Counties Don't Let Illegal Immigrants Slip Away, Unlike Teton County
ICE has claimed not communicating with feds is why the Teton County Sheriff’s Office has let 103 illegal immigrants go the last couple of years. Other Wyoming counties don't have that problem, according to data the agency released Tuesday.
Clair McFarlandDecember 18, 2024
It Took Drones, Spike Strips And A School Lockdown To Arrest Wanted Colorado Man
To stop a wanted Colorado man, western Wyoming law enforcement agencies locked down a school, used drones and put out spike strips. They arrested John Fowler, 42, on drug possession and other charges.
Clair McFarlandDecember 17, 2024
Disappearing Creek In Montana Reveals How Deep Water Fights Can Get In The West
When water in a southwest Montana creek disappeared, a couple fought all the way to the Montana Supreme Court and won. It shows how deep water fights can get in the West.
David MadisonDecember 17, 2024
54-Year-Old Wyoming Man Confesses To Molesting Boy 40 Years Ago
A 54-year-old Wyoming man has confessed to molesting a boy 40 years ago, according to court documents. A proposed plea agreement would drop the man’s conviction if he completes treatment and three years of probation.
Clair McFarlandDecember 17, 2024
Former Cheyenne Family Gets $375K In Lawsuit Against Sheriff's Deputy
The state of Wyoming and the Wyoming Association of Risk Management are paying $375,000 to settle a lawsuit against a Laramie County Sheriff’s deputy and school resource officer accused of injuring an 8-year-old in 2022.
Clair McFarlandDecember 17, 2024
Shooting A Drone In Wyoming Could Lead To 10 Years In Prison, Loss Of Gun Rights
The legal consequences for shooting down a drone in Wyoming range from a misdemeanor to a felony charge that could result in up to 10 years in prison and the loss of gun rights.
Clair McFarlandDecember 17, 2024
12 Years In Prison For Fugitive Montana Meth Trafficker With Massive Arsenal
A Montana man who became a fugitive after he was caught with a massive cache of weapons and meth has been sentenced to 12 years in prison. He also was breaking into storage units while running his drug dealing business from an upscale neighborhood.
David MadisonDecember 16, 2024
Cheyenne Man Accused Of Stabbing Estranged Wife's Boyfriend To Death
A Cheyenne man was in court Monday on claims he stabbed his estranged wife’s boyfriend to death in the home they shared. “I did the stabbing,” he reportedly told police after the act Thursday.
Clair McFarlandDecember 16, 2024
Man Burned Escaping Gillette Apartment Fire By Fleeing "Very Close" To Blaze
A fire that engulfed an apartment unit in Gillette, Wyoming, Sunday morning left one man burned and injured from smoke-inhalation. He escaped by rushing “very close” to the flames before firefighters arrived, the local fire marshal says.
Clair McFarlandDecember 16, 2024
Part 3: Who is D.B. Cooper? After 53 Years, Push To Solve Notorious Crime In Overdrive
Cowboy State Daily's story about a parachute found by a high profile investigator has kicked the stalled investigation of one of America’s most notorious mysteries into overdrive. The new evidence has rekindled ex-FBI agents and others to finally solve the D.B. Cooper case.
Jen KocherDecember 15, 2024
Upton Man Arrested And Charged With Planting Homemade Bomb At Oil Field Company
A 39-year-old Upton, Wyoming, man had his first court appearance Friday, accused of planting a homemade propane bomb in the tool shed of an oil field company. The bomb didn’t go off, but was “the real deal,” the local sheriff has said.
Greg JohnsonDecember 14, 2024
In Wake Of CEO Slaying, Wyomingites Not Spooked Over 3D Printed “Ghost Guns”
3D printed “ghost guns” are back in the news, as one might have been used in the ambush killing of UnitedHealthcare’s CEO. Wyomingites say plastic 3D printed guns aren’t worth the trouble.
Mark HeinzDecember 14, 2024
Sheridan Assistant Principal Convicted For Having Sex With 18-Year Old Student
A now-former Sheridan High School assistant principal was found guilty by a jury Tuesday of having sex with an 18-year-old student. That's illegal in Wyoming when there's an age gap of more than four years.
Clair McFarlandDecember 13, 2024
Riverton Firefighter Charged With Sexually Attacking Women Faces More Accusers
A retired Riverton, Wyoming, firefighter accused of sexually attacking multiple women when he offered them rides asked Monday for more time to prepare for trial. He needs the time to contest claims from more women who have come forward to accuse him.
Clair McFarlandDecember 13, 2024
Worland Police Officer Charged With Child Sex Crimes
A former Washakie County Sheriff's deputy and recent hire of the Worland Police Department has been accused of sex crimes with multiple children. He was charged Monday with two felonies.
Clair McFarlandDecember 12, 2024
Police Arrest Man Suspected Of Trying To Burn Down Lander Bar
The Lander Police Department on Wednesday evening apprehended a 33-year-old Lander man suspected of trying to burn down the popular Lander Bar two days earlier.
Clair McFarlandDecember 12, 2024
Western Colorado Ranchers Missing Nearly 200 Head Of Cattle
The Montrose County Sheriff’s Office on Colorado's Western Slope is investigating nearly 200 cattle missing from federal grazing land reported by ranchers. The cattle is worth an estimated $300,000 to $400,000.
Dale KillingbeckDecember 12, 2024
Feds Deporting Three Illegal Immigrants Who Committed Crimes In Wyoming
Federal authorities are deporting three illegal immigrants out of Wyoming after one was caught with 170 pounds of marijuana and the other two were driving drunk.
Clair McFarlandDecember 12, 2024
Casper Man Who Blurted Out “I Killed Somebody” In Court Found Guilty
A jury took two hours to convict a 44-year-old Casper man who blurted out “I killed somebody” in a prior court hearing of second-degree murder Wednesday. James Mavigliano was found guilty of beating and strangling a man at a local motel.
Dale KillingbeckDecember 11, 2024
Montana Supreme Court Keeps Child Sex Changes Legal During Lawsuit
The Montana Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld a lower court’s decision blocking a state ban on child sex-change treatments. Sex change treatments on children will remain legal while a lawsuit plays out.
Clair McFarlandDecember 11, 2024
Wyoming Bitcoin Company Gets $4.1 Million In Chinese Crypto Mine Settlement
Wyoming-based Bison Blockchain will receive $4.1 million in a settlement over a Chinese-owned cryptocurrency mine in Cheyenne. The Chinese company was shut down by President Joe Biden earlier this year over national security risks.
Leo WolfsonDecember 11, 2024
Illinois Trucker Rams Gillette Man's Pickup Off The Road, Police Say
A semitruck driver from Illinois is accused of side-swiping a Gillette man's pickup so hard he crippled it and drove it off the road west of Gillette, Wyoming. His case rose to felony-level court Monday.
Clair McFarlandDecember 11, 2024
Casper Man Denies Firing Crossbow Bolts Through Ex’s Window
A Casper man accused of firing crossbow bolts at his ex-girlfriend’s home, including through a window, pleaded not guilty Wednesday. He also reportedly texted a threat, saying he was going to do something that “will definitely be in the news.”
Dale KillingbeckDecember 11, 2024
Casper Murder Suspect Told Police He Wanted Victim To “Chill,” Not Die
Testimony continued Tuesday in the murder trial of a 44-year-old Casper man accused of killing a man at a local motel. In a video interview with police, James Mavigliano said he just wanted the victim to “chill.”
Dale KillingbeckDecember 11, 2024
California Transient Who Called Machete Attack Self-Defense Gets Probation
A California man who was passing through Green River, Wyoming, when he had a fight with four transients and cut two of them with a machete was sentenced Friday to probation. He maintained during the case that he was acting in self-defense.
Clair McFarland & Hunter McDaniel for Cowboy State DailyDecember 11, 2024
Bureau Of Indian Affairs Agent In Crash On Reservation, Agency Not Talking
The U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs did not respond to questions Tuesday about one of its own agents involved in a car crash on the Wind River Indian Reservation early Sunday. The BIA is investigating the incident "internally," authorities say.
Clair McFarlandDecember 11, 2024
Police Seek Whoever Tried To Burn Down Lander Bar
Police are seeking help to identify who tried to burn down the popular Lander Bar in Lander, Wyoming, early Monday morning. The attempt failed, but the bar’s owner says the potential for a “catastrophic” result “was literally the flip of a coin.”
Clair McFarlandDecember 10, 2024
Cheyenne’s “Voodoo Man,” Known For Hexing Businesses, Has Felony Dismissed
Cheyenne’s “Voodoo Man,” known for terrorizing local businesses by throwing curses and threats at them, had a felony charge dropped Monday. He’ll instead face a lesser charge for charging through an election center from which he was banned.
Clair McFarlandDecember 10, 2024
People Steal Wyoming’s Road Signs Because They Think They’re “Cool”
People steal road signs from around Wyoming because they think they’re “cool.” Along with people also shooting, painting and otherwise vandalizing them, WYDOT expects to replace more than 100 in just one small corner of the state.
Hunter McDaniel for Cowboy State DailyDecember 10, 2024
Casper Police Searching For Source Of Shots Fired That Put Schools In Lockdown
Casper law enforcement agents are investigating shots fired near a handful of local schools Tuesday. The schools were put into lockdown for several hours as a precaution.
Clair McFarlandDecember 10, 2024
Murder Trial Starts For Casper Man Who Blurted Out “I Killed Someone” In Court
After blurting out during a court hearing that “I killed somebody last night,” a Casper man’s murder trial began Monday. Jurors heard testimony about how the victim was found dead in a motel room.
Dale KillingbeckDecember 10, 2024
In Brief: Casper Escapee Nabbed After Nearly Four-Hour Manhunt
The Natrona County Sheriff’s Office arrested an escapee from the Casper Re-Entry Center after a nearly four-hour manhunt Monday. A stretch of Salt Creek Highway was closed for hours during the search for Joseph Herrera.
Dale KillingbeckDecember 10, 2024
Wyoming Transgender Sorority Member’s Lawsuit Against Attorneys Headed To Trial
A transgender University of Wyoming sorority member’s lawsuit against two lawyers is headed to trial, a judge ordered Friday. The lawyers represented a group of Kappa Kappa Gamma sisters who protested Artemis Langford’s membership in the sorority.
Clair McFarlandDecember 10, 2024
Jelly Seller Accused Of Hauling 35 Pounds Of Drugs From Las Vegas To Shoshoni
Mary Renee Weymouth, a 63-year-old jam and jelly vendor form Lander, Wyoming, is accused of smuggling 35 pounds of drugs into the state. She allegedly hauled meth and pot from Las Vegas to Shoshoni.
Clair McFarlandDecember 09, 2024
Cheyenne Man Unfazed By Police Tasers During Rampage Faces New Charges
A Cheyenne man who was unfazed by tasers when he allegedly attacked local police with multiple weapons in April now faces a possible life sentence. New felony charges were filed against Ronald Andrew Romero on Friday.
Clair McFarlandDecember 09, 2024
Family Still Desperate For Answers 43 Years After Young Wyoming Mother Vanished
Amber Scholz was a 21-year-old mother in a custody battle with the father when she vanished from her Rock Springs home in 1981. Now 43 years later, her family is still desperate for answers.
Jen KocherDecember 08, 2024
DNA Test Links Pinedale Woman To 27-Year-Old Cold Case Of Dead Baby Found In Septic Pit
A 23-year-old Michigan woman says she was shocked to learn that her Ancestry DNA test kit helped lead to the arrest of her grandmother living in Pinedale, Wyoming. Michigan State Police say the DNA links the grandmother to a 27-year-old cold case of a dead baby found in a Michigan septic pit.
Jen KocherDecember 08, 2024
Horsehair Thieves Cutting Off Horse Tails And Manes In Albany County
Thieves supply a black market for horsehair by sneaking into pastures and stalls and cutting off the animals’ tails and manes. Horse owners say there’s been a rash of such crimes around Laramie.
Mark HeinzDecember 07, 2024
Rock Springs Man Gives Grisly Account Of Stabbing Victim 30 Times
A Rock Springs, Wyoming, man gave a grisly confession Friday about stabbing a man more than 30 times, killing him, and dumping his body last year. He said it happened after a meth-fueled argument about a woman with whom they were both involved.
Clair McFarlandDecember 07, 2024
Wyoming Tops In The Nation For Cigarette Smuggling
Wyoming has the highest rate of outbound cigarette smuggling in the U.S., according to a study by the Tax Foundation. The group says 49.2% of Wyoming’s cigarette consumption goes to smugglers taking the product outside the state.
Clair McFarlandDecember 06, 2024
Man Who Held Woman Taken From Bloomberg Hostage At Cheyenne Motel Gets 22 Years
A Colorado man who held a woman hostage in a Cheyenne, Wyoming, motel after kidnapping her from Michael Bloomberg’s ranch was sentenced to 22 years in prison Thursday.
Clair McFarlandDecember 06, 2024
Housekeeper Accused Of Stealing $26K In Coins From Room In Historic Plains Hotel
The former head housekeeper of the historic Plains Hotel in downtown Cheyenne, Wyoming, is accused of stealing $26,000 worth of coins from a guest’s room. Court documents say she had other people sell them to coin dealers for cash.
Clair McFarlandDecember 05, 2024
Former Riverton Youth Pastor Found Not Guilty Of Molesting Child
A former Riverton, Wyoming, youth pastor accused of fondling a young girl last year was found not guilty by a Florida jury Tuesday. He allegedly told investigators that he’s addicted to porn and “gave in to temptation.”
Clair McFarlandDecember 05, 2024
Suspect Leads Casper Police On High-Speed Chase After Pepper-Spraying Clerk
A man is in jail after allegedly pepper-spraying a liquor store attendant and grabbing about 30 cartons of cigarettes. He then led Casper police on a high-speed late Tuesday.
Greg JohnsonDecember 05, 2024
Gillette Officer Faces Felony Charge For Alleged Sex With Woman On Probation
The Gillette Police Department officer arrested by his own department Monday faces an out-of-state felony charge. He's accused of having sex with a woman who was on felony probation while he was a cop in Utah, which is a felony in that state.
Clair McFarlandDecember 04, 2024
US Supreme Court Hears Case That Could Reverse Wyoming Ban On Child Sex Changes
The U.S. Supreme Court heard argument Wednesday in a case that could decide if states can ban sex-change treatments for kids. The decision could reverse Wyoming’s ban.
Clair McFarlandDecember 04, 2024
In Brief: Gillette Police Department Arrests One Of Its Own Officers
The Gillette Police Department took one of its own officers into custody Monday, after Utah authorities said the man was wanted on suspicion of a sex crime. The official also is accused of witness tampering and disseminating a private record.
Clair McFarlandDecember 04, 2024
Lighter Charges For Couple Accused Of Shooting Toward, Bear Spraying Woman
A South Dakota couple accused of shooting toward a woman and bear spraying her at their Wyoming campsite may plead to lesser charges. Their felony-level charges, each punishable by a decade in prison, were reduced to misdemeanors last week.
Clair McFarlandDecember 03, 2024
Former Laramie Council Hopeful Pleads To Sabotaging Wyoming Public Radio Equipment
Former Laramie City Council candidate Paul Montoya has pleaded no contest to sabotaging Wyoming Public Radio equipment. He maintains his innocence, telling Cowboy State Daily on Monday the charges weren’t “worth the time and expense” to bring.
Leo WolfsonDecember 03, 2024
Homemade Propane Bomb Found In Wyoming Oil Field Equipment Shed
A homemade propane bomb was found Saturday in the tool shed of a Weston County, Wyoming, oil field equipment company. It was “the real deal,” the sheriff says, adding it’s lucky the device didn’t go off.
Greg JohnsonDecember 02, 2024
Wyoming Sues Huge Investors For Pushing “Climate Activist Agenda” To Kill Coal
Wyoming and 10 other states are accusing three massive investors of colluding to downsize coal companies to achieve net-zero carbon emissions goals. They’re using their power as large stockholders to push “a climate activist agenda.”
Clair McFarlandDecember 02, 2024
Wyoming Man Agrees To Plead Guilty To Trying To Kidnap Teen Girl
A man from St. Stephens, Wyoming, has agreed to plead guilty to trying to kidnap a teen girl from a Riverton movie theater in 2022. The girl managed to fight Terrence Jenkins off even after he held a knife to her neck, court documents say.
Clair McFarlandDecember 02, 2024
Carbon County Man Found Dead In Remote Area South Of Rawlins
Bruce Baugh was supposed to be back home in Rawlins by 11 a.m. Wednesday after an early-morning elk. Carbon County Search and Rescue volunteers found his body on Thursday afternoon, over a mile away from his vehicle, which had become stuck.
Andrew RossiNovember 29, 2024
Wyoming Man Pleads Guilty To Killing Woman After Beating Another
An Ethete, Wyoming, man pleaded guilty Tuesday to stabbing a woman to death on the Wind River Indian Reservation. Months earlier, Kevin Mendibles also was arrested for beating another woman. He faces life in prison.
Clair McFarlandNovember 27, 2024
Wyoming Supreme Court Rules Against Man Who Tried To Sneak Meth Into Court
The Wyoming Supreme Court ruled Tuesday that a man who tried to sneak meth into the Uinta County Courthouse wasn’t searched illegally. The justices said the man gave up his right to privacy when he entered the courthouse.
Clair McFarlandNovember 27, 2024
Disabled Woman Sues, Says Cheyenne Police Officer Broke Her Ankle
A local woman filed a civil complaint against the city of Cheyenne and a Cheyenne police officer, who she claims used excessive force during a minor traffic stop. She says the officer broke her right ankle and roughed her up.
Clair McFarlandNovember 27, 2024
Montana Principal Pleads No Contest To Blocking Police Investigation Of Teacher
A Montana school principal and former candidate for the state’s top education post pleaded no contest Tuesday to blocking a police investigation into a teacher. Prosecutors didn’t buy her claim she hindered police to protect parental rights.
David MadisonNovember 27, 2024
Teton County Has Let 103 Illegal Immigrants Slip Away In Two Years, Says ICE
Within the past 21 months, the Teton County Sheriff’s Office has allowed 103 illegal immigrants to slip away, Immigration Customs and Enforcement (ICE) told Cowboy State Daily on Tuesday. They say the sheriff’s office has not been honoring ICE’s requests for holds.
Clair McFarlandNovember 27, 2024
Higher Court Revives Lawsuit By Laramie High Schooler Arrested Over Not Masking
A former Laramie High School student who was arrested over a dispute over masking had her lawsuit against the local school district revived Tuesday. It had been dismissed by a lower court in 2023.
Clair McFarlandNovember 26, 2024
Mexican Nationals Accused Of Beating Gillette Roommate, Leaving Him For Dead
Three Mexican nationals are accused of beating their roommate from Gillette, Wyoming, driving out to a remote part of Campbell County, and leaving him for dead. Beaten and cold, the man followed some railroad tracks back to town.
Clair McFarlandNovember 26, 2024
Appeals Court Also Refuses To Kick Trans Player Off Volleyball Team
The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals declined Tuesday to disqualify a San Jose State University transgender player from the Mountain West Conference tournament. The higher court's ruling upholds a lower order by a Colorado judge.
Clair McFarlandNovember 26, 2024
Volleyball Players Appeal, Ask Higher Court To Oust Transgender Player
A dozen women suing the Mountain West Conference over its inclusion of a transgender volleyball player are asking a higher court to intervene. A Colorado judge on Monday denied the women's request to oust the transgender player from this week's championship tournament.
Clair McFarlandNovember 26, 2024
Wyoming Man Accused Of Killing Girlfriend Doesn't Get New Judge Or Lawyers
A judge decided Monday that a man accused of trying to dump the body of his murdered girlfriend in Park County, Wyoming, doesn’t need a new judge or new attorneys. Joseph Underwood, 50, has argued insistently that he does.
Clair McFarlandNovember 26, 2024
Teton County Sheriff Says He Didn't Sabotage ICE's Plans To Deport Illegal Immigrants
Teton County’s sheriff is refuting a claim Harriet Hageman made in her Sunday newsletter that his office is sabotaging efforts to deport illegal immigrants. She said the sheriff is "foiling" ICE's efforts.
Clair McFarlandNovember 26, 2024
Wyoming Man Gets 3 Years In Prison For Swinging Flagpole At Police On Jan. 6
Bedford, Wyoming, resident Douglas Harrington was sentenced to three years in prison Monday for assaulting police with a flagpole during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol Riot. It’s the harshest sentence so far for a Wyoming resident related to Jan. 6.
Leo WolfsonNovember 25, 2024
Judge Rules Transgender Volleyball Player Can Compete
A Colorado-based federal judge declined Monday to remove a transgender player from the Mountain West Conference women’s volleyball tournament. He also didn’t reverse six forfeit losses teams have taken by boycotting matches against that player.
Clair McFarlandNovember 25, 2024