Crime & Courts
News
Laramie Firefighter Paralyzed After Being Crushed In House Fire Collapse
A Laramie firefighter is facing a long rehabilitation after being paralyzed when a stone fireplace chase collapsed on him while fighting a house fire late Friday. His father told Cowboy State Daily that doctors believe his spinal cord is still intact.
Mark HeinzMarch 03, 2025
Man Applying To Be Jail Officer Allegedly Admits Molesting Kids During Polygraph
A Gillette, Wyoming, man who tried to get a job as a detention officer is now incarcerated in the jail where he’d hoped to work. That’s because during a pre-employment polygraph, he confessed to molesting children, court documents allege.
Clair McFarlandMarch 03, 2025
Netflix Docuseries On Gabby Petito Murder Puts Wyoming In Spotlight Again
The search for Gabby Petito in fall 2021 had the world watching northwest Wyoming. The missing YouTuber was ultimately found murdered in Bridger-Teton National Forest, and a new Netflix docuseries puts Teton County Coroner Brent Blue and the investigative team in the spotlight again.
Jen KocherMarch 02, 2025
FBI Seeks Ethete Man Accused Of Working With 'Probable' Drug Cartel Member
The FBI is seeking information regarding the whereabouts of Collie Judson Warren, 49, who is wanted on suspicion of dealing meth. Court documents say Warren worked with a man with "probable" Mexican drug cartel ties near the Wind River Reservation.
Clair McFarlandMarch 02, 2025
Beleaguered Assisted Living Center In Gillette Trying To Earn Back Public Trust
After making international headlines when an elderly female resident was found frozen in January, the Legacy Living and Rehabilitation Center in Gillette announced Friday it will continue to not admit new patients until it’s fully staffed and has reduced the number of contracted staff.
Jen KocherMarch 01, 2025
Hours After Governor Signs New Abortion Law, Pro-Choice Group Files Lawsuit
Hours after Gov. Mark Gordon signed a new law regulating abortion clinics, with another heading to his desk, a pro-choice group has sued to block them. The lawsuit, filed at 1 a.m. Friday, claims the laws target Wyoming’s only abortion clinic.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 28, 2025
Man With ‘Probable’ Drug Cartel Ties Could Get Life For Dealing Meth In Wyoming
An illegal immigrant with “probable” Mexican drug cartel ties was in federal court Thursday. Through an interpreter, he was told he could get 10 years to life in prison if convicted of dealing meth on the Wind River Reservation.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 28, 2025
PETA To Get $35K Settlement After Denied Anti-Leather Ad In Rock Springs Airport
PETA says a settlement with the airport in Rock Springs allows the animal advocacy group to post an anti-leather ad and collect $35,000 in legal fees. The group sued after the ad had been rejected.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 28, 2025
Scammer Selling Bogus Cheyenne Frontier Days Food Truck Applications
Wyoming food truck vendors are being scammed into paying bogus application fees in hopes of having a coveted spot at Cheyenne Frontier Days, the Cheyenne Police Department warns.
Greg JohnsonFebruary 27, 2025
Montana Credit Union Worker Replaced $340,000 In Vault With Fake Money
When a credit union employee needed cash to feed his gambling habit, he bought fake cash from an online prop money company and swapped it with real bills in the vault. He pleaded guilty Tuesday to replacing $340,000 over seven months.
David MadisonFebruary 27, 2025
Lyman Man Accused Of Shooting Man 10 Times Pleads Insanity
The Wyoming State Hospital has about a month to offer an opinion on whether a Lyman man was too insane to know what he was doing when he allegedly killed another man last summer. The victim was shot 10 times near Fort Bridger.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 27, 2025
Judge Tells Wyoming Legislators To Buy More Computers And Fund Schools Better
A Laramie County District Court judge ordered Wyoming lawmakers Wednesday to fund schools better to satisfy the state Constitution. The ruling calls for more computers, school resource officers and mental health counselors, among other underfunded needs.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 27, 2025
Wyoming Child Porn Case Ends With Raid Of Philippines Sex House
What started as a child pornography bust in Lincoln County, Wyoming, ended this month with the rescue of nine children from sex trafficking in the Philippines, authorities say. Local agents got to watch the bust via Zoom as the raid unfolded.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 26, 2025
FBI, ICE Nab Suspected Mexican Cartel Member Working On Wyoming Reservation
FBI agents arrested Tuesday an illegal immigrant they say has ties to a drug cartel and is suspected of dealing meth around Wyoming’s Wind River Indian Reservation. Two others, including an illegal immigrant from Mexico, were also arrested.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 26, 2025
Man Accused In 1982 Green River Bombing Caught In New Mexico After Standoff
A man accused of sending a bomb to his ex-wife’s new boyfriend’s house in Green River, Wyoming, in 1982, has been caught in New Mexico after more than 40 years, allegedly living under a dead classmate's identity. The blast blew off one of the woman’s fingers and caused other injuries.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 26, 2025
You Can Shoot A Vicious Dog In Wyoming, But Be Prepared To Back It Up
Concealed firearms carriers can legally shoot attacking dogs but should be prepared to back their stories up, self-defense experts say. It can be more complicated in a populated area, even leading to potential endangering charges.
Mark HeinzFebruary 25, 2025
Man Accused Of Firing Shotgun At Fleeing Wife Agrees To 3-5 Years In Prison
A Sheridan man pleaded guilty Thursday to aggravated assault, following claims he fired a shotgun toward his wife as she ran and took cover in a ditch. Prosecutors are seeking a three-to-five year prison sentence.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 25, 2025
Casper Man Charged With Illegal Gambling Says Wyoming's Ban Is Unconstitutional
A man accused of running a professional gambling operation out of three businesses is challenging the law with which he is charged. Scott Schroefel of Casper claims the state’s statute against illegal gambling is vague, confusing and unconstitutional.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 25, 2025
Montana Man Gets 110 Years For Crashing Homemade Truck Bomb Into Neighbor’s House
A neighborhood feud turned into a scene from “Mad Max” when a Montana man transformed his truck into a firebomb on wheels and sent it crashing into a neighbor’s house. He was sentenced earlier this month to 110 years in prison for attempted murder.
David MadisonFebruary 25, 2025
Powell Resident Shoots At Hawk With Fireworks
Though they were called to an active shooter incident, the Powell police quickly learned it was actually a person trying to blast a hawk with a roman candle. Meanwhile, the responding officer accidentally discharged a gun.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 25, 2025
Worland Man Charged With Shooting Own Dog Six Times, Hoping He'd 'Bleed Out'
Axel, a border-collie mix, is recovering after being shot six times by his owner. Donald W. Wright, 59, of Worland, Wyoming, was in court Monday, charged with cruelty to animals and saying he hoped the dog would "bleed out."
Clair McFarlandFebruary 24, 2025
Thermopolis Woman Accused Of Taking At Least $15,000 From FFA Alumni Pleads Guilty
A Thermopolis woman accused of stealing at least $15,000 from a Future Farmers of America (FFA) alumni group pleaded guilty last week to felony charges. The special prosecutor on the case is now asking for no more than 30 months in prison.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 24, 2025
Douglas Man Gets 48-62 Years For Killing Green Beret Cousin
Mark Helms has been sentenced to 48-62 years in prison for killing his cousin Nicholas Velazquez, a special forces Green Beret. The pair had been drinking overnight at Helms' home in 2023.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 24, 2025
Green River Tunnel Survivor Still In Hospital, Family Grateful For Support
The 20-year-old woman who was severely hurt in the Feb. 14 tunnel collision outside of Green River, Wyoming, remains hospitalized. She’s in the care of "incredible medical teams," her family says.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 22, 2025
Sheridan Man Agrees To 4-6 Years For Punching Hockey Coach To Death
A Sheridan man pleaded no-contest Wednesday to fatally punching a local hockey coach in the head after a dispute about a parking space last summer. He's agreed to a prison sentence of four to six years.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 21, 2025
Wyoming Man Who “Wanted To Feel It” When He Killed Woman Gets 40 Years
An Ethete, Wyoming, man who told police he “wanted to feel it” when he brutally beat and stabbed a woman to death last year was sentenced to 40 years in prison Friday.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 21, 2025
UW Volleyball Players Want Judge Off Case For Making Them Call Trans Player ‘She’
Three University of Wyoming volleyball players are among those who sued over a transgender player being allowed on a rival team. They’re now asking a Colorado judge to recuse himself from their case for making them refer to the trans player as “she.”
Clair McFarlandFebruary 21, 2025
Man Who Strangled Drunk Man At Casper Motel Gets 62 Years To Life
A 44-year-old Casper man faces a 62-to-life prison sentence for strangling a 28-year-old man in a Casper motel room last March. James Mavigliano was convicted of second-degree murder in December following a jury trial.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 20, 2025
Two Dead In Latest Green River Crash ID'd; Semi Truck Went Straight On Curve
A fatal crash outside Green River that killed two people Wednesday happened when a semitruck failed to navigate a curve and collided with a Honda Odyssey, the Wyoming Highway Patrol reports.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 20, 2025
Casper Teen Charged In Fatal Shooting Had History Of Pointing Gun At People
An 18-year-old Casper man was bound over to Natrona County District Court Thursday on an involuntary manslaughter charge. Evidence at a preliminary hearing showed he had a history of pointing his .40-caliber Glock at others.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 20, 2025
Man Calls In 6 Bomb Threats To Evanston Horse Palace
A man forced the Evanston Horse Palace to close Wednesday night when he called six times in a row to say he planted a bomb inside. After a sweep with a bomb-sniffing dog, the threats are believed to be a hoax that could’ve come from anywhere.
Greg JohnsonFebruary 20, 2025
Wyoming Girl Who Fought Off Attacker Forgives Him As He Gets 36-40 Years
A man who attacked and tried to kidnap a Wyoming girl outside a Riverton movie theater was sentenced Thursday to 36-40 years in prison. His victim told Cowboy State Daily that as she fought him off, she was determined to not be another memorial on Facebook.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 20, 2025
Green River Tunnel Open To 2-Way Traffic Again After Devastating Crash
The Wyoming Department of Transportation has opened two-way traffic through the Green River Tunnel on Thursday for the first time since a devastating 26-vehicle crash last Friday. Traffic is moving through the eastbound lanes at reduced speeds.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 20, 2025
Two Dead In Crash Outside Of Green River; Not Part Of Tunnel Detour
Two people died and one person was injured in a two-vehicle crash Wednesday evening outside Green River, at a junction that isn’t part of a congested detour through the town, the Wyoming Highway Patrol says.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 20, 2025
Sheridan Kids Taken By Mom Still Not Home, But Believed Safe, Police Report
After a dayslong search for a pair of young children from Sheridan who were taken Sunday by their mother, local police Wednesday night called off an alert asking people to be on the lookout for them.
Jen KocherFebruary 20, 2025
Casper Man Accused Of Invading Home, Pulling Knife And Threatening To Shoot Up House
A 27-year-old Casper man is accused of a 2 a.m. home invasion Tuesday in which he hit a man and threatened him with a knife. He also allegedly threatened to shoot up the house.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 19, 2025
Wyoming Cops Release Dramatic Video Showing Shooting Of Man With Baseball Bat
A compilation of body, dash camera and home video released Tuesday shows what led two law enforcement officers to shoot and kill a Thermopolis man threatening them with a baseball bat. The man’s distraught father asks, “Why’d you have to shoot somebody?”
Clair McFarlandFebruary 19, 2025
Sheridan Police Ask For Help Finding 2 Young Kids Taken By Mom
Police in Sheridan, Wyoming, are asking the public’s help in locating a 4-year-old girl and her 3-year-old brother reported missing Sunday. They’re believed to have been taken by their mom.
Jen KocherFebruary 19, 2025
Man Who Bleached Romantic Rival To Stay In Prison Under “Deadly Weapon” Law
Liquid bleach can be a deadly weapon, the Wyoming Supreme Court ruled Tuesday. The decision comes after a man who splashed bleach in his romantic rival’s face challenged his felony conviction.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 19, 2025
Two Rawlins Men, One From Canada ID'd As Green River Tunnel Crash Fatalities
Authorities Tuesday released the names of the three men who died Friday in a devastating Green River, Wyoming, tunnel collision. They are Christopher Johnson, 20 of Rawlins; Quentin Romero, 22 of Rawlins; and Harmanjeet Singh, 30 of Nova Scotia, Canada.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 19, 2025
Mother Of Alleged Sheridan Cop Killer Charged With Giving Guns To Felon
The 71-year-old mother of the man suspected of shooting and killing a Sheridan police sergeant last February has been federally charged with giving guns to a felon. The indictment doesn’t say whether that felon was her son.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 18, 2025
Byron Man Discusses Wife's Last Days Before Murder-Suicide
Twelve hours after his wife shot her four children and herself, Cliff Harshman sat in a hospital waiting room. “I sat and wept. And I cried to God: ‘Please forgive her. Help me forgive her,’” he told Cowboy State Daily. “I lost my best friend. My kids. Everything.”
Clair McFarlandFebruary 18, 2025
Wyoming Trooper Faces Worst Nightmare — Responding To His Own Family’s Crash
A Wyoming Highway Patrol trooper faced his worst nightmare last week — responding to a crash involving his own family. A witness tells Cowboy State Daily about the urgent rescue of the trooper’s 2-year-old son, who remains in serious condition.
Zakary Sonntag for Cowboy State DailyFebruary 18, 2025
Final Death Toll In Green River Tunnel Crash At 3, Cause Under Investigation
Investigators said Monday that the final death toll in the 26-vehicle collision inside the Green River Tunnel on Interstate 80 is three dead. The cause and circumstances remain under investigation.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 17, 2025
Two Die After Side-By-Side Breaks Through Ice On Glendo Reservoir
Two men died on Saturday after their UTV broke through the icy waters in Glendo Reservoir. A brother of one of the victims told Cowboy State Daily that the first responders were heroes. “Thank you for your service in the bitter cold," he said.
Andrew RossiFebruary 17, 2025
Green River Flooded With Semis With Tunnel Closed After Devastating Crash
The small city of Green River, Wyoming, lies next to Interstate 80, one of the busiest commercial truck routes in the U.S. After Friday’s devastating crash that closed the busy Green River Tunnel, thousands of vehicles are driving through town instead.
Zakary Sonntag for Cowboy State DailyFebruary 17, 2025
WYDOT Director Says Green River Tunnel Crash Started Outside Tunnel
The 26-vehicle fatal crash inside the Green River Tunnel on Interstate 80 started outside of the tunnel, WYDOT Director Darin Westby told Cowboy State Daily on Monday. Work crews continue to clear debris from the roadway.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 17, 2025
Third Fatality Confirmed In Green River Tunnel Crash, 26 Vehicles Involved
A third person has been confirmed dead in Friday’s devastating multivehicle crash in the westbound lane of the Green River Tunnel, officials reported Sunday. It’s believed 26 vehicles were involved.
Zakary Sonntag for Cowboy State Daily & Greg JohnsonFebruary 16, 2025
Olivia, 7-Year-Old Lone Survivor Of Byron Murder-Suicide, Dies In Utah Hospital
Olivia Blackmer, 7, was the lone survivor of a Feb. 10 murder-suicide in Byron, Wyoming, by which her three sisters and mother died last week. Olivia pulled through a brain surgery early last week, but ultimately died Saturday, her family has confirmed.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 16, 2025
Responders Still Putting Out Fires, Clearing Vehicles At Green River Tunnel
At a press conference on Saturday, officials said emergency responders were still working to extinguish fires and clear piled-up vehicles, after a wreck in the Green River tunnel killed at least two people and sparked a raging blaze.
Zakary Sonntag for Cowboy State DailyFebruary 15, 2025
Trucker In Deadly Green River Tunnel Crash Describes Harrowing Escape
A trucker who narrowly escaped Friday’s explosive pileup in the Green River Tunnel described the horror inside and shared video footage of him kicking out the window of his truck to escape.
Greg JohnsonFebruary 15, 2025
Family, Friends Desperate For News Of Lusk Mother Of 7 Missing Since July
Nobody has seen or heard from Natasha Requejo since last July, leaving family and friends desperate for news of the missing mother of seven from Lusk. Her boyfriend says she just walked off one day, leaving him and her kids behind.
Jen KocherFebruary 15, 2025
Massive Response To Green River Tunnel Crash, Death Toll May Rise
The Wyoming Highway Patrol on Saturday said fatalities could rise as the number of vehicles involved in a massive crash inside a tunnel on I-80 near Green River has not yet been confirmed. First responders worked through the night to fight the fire inside the tunnel.
Zakary Sonntag for Cowboy State DailyFebruary 15, 2025
Fire, Weakened Structure Keeps Responders Out Of Tunnel For Hours; Motorists Run For Safety
Fire and rescue crews at an explosive tunnel collision outside Green River could not enter the tunnel for hours Friday after the initial crash. The fire inside was too intense, and the tunnel’s structure had been weakened. Motorists inside the tunnel had to run for safety.
Clair McFarland, Jimmy Orr & Andrew RossiFebruary 14, 2025
Response Shifts To Recovery After “Huge Explosions,” Multiple Fatalities In Crash In Green River Tunnel
Heavy, black smoke billowed out of both ends of the Green River Tunnel along Interstate 80 after a fatal multivehicle pileup and fire inside Friday afternoon. Witnesses report feeling and hearing “huge explosions.” By late Friday night, the response had shifted from rescue to recovery.
Andrew Rossi, Clair McFarland & Jimmy OrrFebruary 14, 2025
Affidavit: After Casper Teen Killed, Homeowner Told Shooter To “Get Rid Of The Gun”
After a 16-year-old Casper boy was accidentally shot in the head and killed while smoking pot and playing a video game with friends, the homeowner and dad of one of the teens told the shooter to “get rid of the gun,” a court affidavit says.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 14, 2025
Gillette Man Charged With Murder For Killing Half-Sister Pleads Not Guilty
The Gillette man accused of shooting his half-sister in the head and killing her last month pleaded not guilty Thursday. Vincent Hackett faces a second-degree murder charge.
Jen KocherFebruary 13, 2025
It's Been A Year Since Sheridan Police Sgt. Nevada Krinkee Was Killed On Duty
Feb. 13 will always be a day the Sheridan Police Department will never forget. It was a year ago Thursday that Sgt. Nevada Krinkee, a popular veteran of the police force, was killed in the line of duty. His sacrifice is being remembered in Sheridan and around Wyoming.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2025
Probation For Accused Jackson Flasher Who Claimed His Pants Accidentally “Fell Down”
A man accused of flashing his genitalia at women and girls in Jackson and telling police his pants accidentally "fell down" was sentenced to one year probation, mental health treatment and community service.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2025
Teen Arrested After 16-Year-Old Shot, Killed At Casper Home
An 18-year-old Casper man has been arrested and charged with involuntary manslaughter after a 16-year-old boy was shot and killed Wednesday night. It’s the third teen-on-teen fatal incident in the town in less than a year.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 13, 2025
Shooting Of Classmates Has School Coping, Praying After Byron Murder-Suicide
The Rocky Mountain Elementary School has brought in four extra counselors and a support dog to help its 171 students in the aftermath of a Monday murder-suicide that killed one of its students and left another in critical condition.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2025
Explosion at Newcastle Refinery Leaves Town Without Electricity, 911 Service
An explosion at an oil refinery in Newcastle on Wednesday night, unleased a power surge that killed the town’s electricity and 911 service. One person said the explosion was like something out of a “horror movie.”
Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2025
7-Year-OId Survivor Of Byron Murder-Suicide Clings To Life After Brain Surgery
The father of the only survivor of a Monday murder-suicide that claimed the lives of three girls and their mother says 7-year-old Olivia Blackmer is “still fighting.” Her brain swelling has been spiking, but she's still responding to medication, he said.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2025
Riverton Woman Gets 3-5 Years In Prison For Shooting Boyfriend's Foot
A Riverton woman was sentenced to between three and five years in prison Tuesday for shooting off part of her boyfriend's toe during an argument. Jordan Weliever also was ordered to pay about $6,100 to the state to reimburse the victim’s medical expenses.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 13, 2025
Pilot Makes Emergency Landing On Wyoming Highway Near Rawlins
A pilot walked away from making an emergency landing on Wyoming Highway 789 on Wednesday near Rawlins. One longtime pilot calls it the “best-case scenario” for a forced landing in freezing temperatures.
Andrew RossiFebruary 12, 2025
Husband Of Woman In Byron Murder-Suicide Says She Was Depressed, Struggling
The Wyoming woman who shot her four daughters then herself Monday suffered from depression and other struggles, her husband told Cowboy State Daily on Wednesday. He said his wife's break has been both heartbreaking and shocking, because she “was not a monster.”
Clair McFarlandFebruary 12, 2025
Dad Of Two Girls Shot In Byron Murder-Suicide Pleads, “Pray For My Baby”
The father of 7- and 9-year-old girls shot Monday in a murder-suicide in Byron, Wyoming, is praying frantically for the one of four young children who survived. He pleads for the world as well to “pray for my baby.”
Clair McFarlandFebruary 12, 2025
No Outward Signs Byron Mom Suspected Of Shooting Kids Was Struggling, Neighbors Say
Sheriffs deputies described walking in on a nightmare scene Monday in a home where a mother is suspected of shooting her four children, then herself. A next-door neighbor says he was blindsided and never saw any outward signs the mom was struggling.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 12, 2025
LDS Church Admits Cody Official Gave Bad Advice That Led To Approval Of Temple
An attorney representing the LDS church told the Wyoming Supreme Court on Tuesday that a city official gave bad advice that led to approving a controversial 101-foot steeple for the temple the church is building there.
Leo WolfsonFebruary 12, 2025
Byron Mom Suspected Of Shooting Her 4 Daughters Then Herself Dies
The Byron mother who called 911 to say her four daughters had been shot then turned the gun on herself died Tuesday afternoon, the Big Horn County Sheriff told Cowboy State Daily.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 12, 2025
Paranoid Montana Man Draws Prison Time For Pointing Laser At Aircraft
When a Kalispell, Montana, man became convinced he was being followed by low-flying aircraft, he laser-blasted a flight instructor. She used her plane to help police make an arrest, and now he’ll spend 2.5 years in prison.
David MadisonFebruary 11, 2025
Casper Man Who Tried To Blow Himself Up Faces Felony Charges
A 28-year-old Casper man who unsuccessfully tried to blow himself up and challenged a police officer to “shoot me” was charged with three felonies Monday.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 11, 2025
Small-Town Wyoming Mom Called 911, Reported Her Four Kids Shot Then Shot Herself
A Byron, Wyoming, mother called 911 to report her four daughters had been shot, then shot herself in the head Monday, the Big Horn County Sheriff’s Office reported Tuesday. Three children are dead, while the condition of the fourth and mother are unknown.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 11, 2025
Five Gunshot Victims, Some Dead In Byron Shooting
Law enforcement agents found five gunshot victims at a home in Byron, Wyoming, the Big Horn County sheriff's office announced on Monday. Some were found dead; two were taken to medical care.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 11, 2025
Razor Wire, Drugs And 'Coyotes' - Wyoming Troopers Say Texas Border Problems "Massive"
Wyoming Highway Patrol troopers who went to Texas last summer to assist state patrol and enforce the U.S. border told legislators on Monday that their experiences were eye-opening. “The problems Texas is facing are massive,” one trooper said.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 11, 2025
Jackson Newspaper Gives Community A Heads-Up During Active ICE Investigation
A Jackson newspaper announced that an ICE raid was taking place Friday in Jackson Hole, while it was still occurring. One former ICE official called it "bullshit" and a breach of safety and trust. Another said the media is going to report what it thinks is news.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 10, 2025
Baby Safe After Car Thief Abandons Vehicle Near Riverton
A three-month-old baby who was in the back of a stolen Ford Escape was returned to its mother on Sunday evening near Riverton after the car thief abandoned the vehicle. The perpetrator has not yet been located.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 10, 2025
Grandparents Of Murdered Upton Teen Plead For Missing Persons Bill
By the time authorities were legally able to enter the home on Oct. 7, 2019, it was too late. Shayna Ritthaler was found dead in a closet covered with clothing. Wyoming is one of six states that don't have missing person reporting requirements.
Jen KocherFebruary 08, 2025
Death Penalty On The Table In Bow And Arrow Death; Prosecutor Says Man Was 'Impaled'
Sublette County Attorney Clayton Melinkovich said he hasn’t ruled out seeking the death penalty for two Big Piney men charged Friday with first-degree murder, in the death of a man investigators say was killed by a bow and arrow. The victim was "impaled" by a man who later bragged about the act to friends, Melinkovich alleged in court.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 07, 2025
Casper Man Receives 60-Plus Years For Child Rape, Child Pornography Charges
A 26-year-old Casper man who once bragged about having sex with young children was sentenced on Friday in Natrona County District Court to over 60 years for raping a child and soliciting others to do the same.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 07, 2025
No Charges For Thermopolis Officer, Deputy Who Shot Baseball Bat Attacker
There will be no criminal charges filed against the police officer and sheriff's deputy who shot and killed a Thermopolis man who charged them with a metal baseball bat. The special prosecutor on Friday said the agents acted within Wyoming's self-defense laws,
Clair McFarlandFebruary 07, 2025
Two Big Piney Men, 18 and 19, Charged With First-Degree Murder In Bow And Arrow Death
Sublette County sheriff's investigators found a 23-year-old man dead of apparent arrow wounds Wednesday in a Big Piney home. Two men aged 18 and 19 were charged with variations of first-degree murder Friday morning.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 07, 2025
Teen Girl Accused In Reliance Bonfire Shooting Charged As Adult
A 16-year-old Rock Springs girl has been charged as an adult after Sweetwater County Sheriff’s investigators say she shot two men who were in a fight with her boyfriend. The shooting happened late Saturday near a bonfire party spot outside Reliance.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 06, 2025
Judge Won’t Dismiss Sheridan Man’s “Sucker-Punch” Manslaughter Case Early
A judge declined Tuesday to dismiss the case of a man accused of killing a Sheridan hockey coach with a blow the coach's girlfriend called a "sucker punch." Cody McCalla claimed he acted in self-defense after getting into a fight with the victim.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 06, 2025
In Brief: Man In Big Piney Home Found Dead, Other Man Questioned
A man was found dead of "significant injuries" Wednesday in a home in Big Piney, the Sublette County Sheriff's Office reports. Another adult male was detained for questioning.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 06, 2025
Governor, AG Say Judge Misapplied Law When Striking Down Abortion Bans
The Wyoming Attorney General’s Office argued this week that a judge misapplied the law when she struck down two abortion bans in November. The AG claims in a filing that the judge leaned on an abortion-friendly doctors' testimony when proclaiming abortion "health care."
Clair McFarlandFebruary 05, 2025
Coroner's Report: Senior Died Of Hypothermia At Gillette Assisted Living Center
A coroner's report released Tuesday revealed an ongoing investigation into two deaths at a Gillette assisted living center. In January, an 88-year-old resident was found dead of hypothermia outside while a 66-year-old resident died of an overdose in November. Five employees have been terminated.
Jen KocherFebruary 05, 2025
Evanston Snowmobiler Killed In Avalanche; Friends Say Man Was 'Too Good For This Earth'
Scott Wright, 37, of Evanston, Wyoming, was killed in an avalanche in Utah on Monday, authorities say. A friend of his told Cowboy State Daily that Wright was an avid snowmobiler who loved working on the machines and building them.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 05, 2025
Former Riverton School Board Candidate Gets 25-30 Years For Molesting Child
Hunter DeVries, 23, was sentenced Tuesday to 25-30 years in prison for molesting a child over the course of several months. He ran for the local school board last year, and despite showing remorse, deserves a “lengthy prison sentence,” the judge said.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 04, 2025
Woman Accused Of Leading Five Law Enforcement Agencies On Wild Riverton Chase, Crashing Into Deputy
A woman charged Friday is accused of leading at least five police agencies on a chase in Riverton, Wyoming. She sped over spike strips, pulled a U-turn on the highway and rammed a deputy's truck while drinking from a bottle of alcohol, court documents say.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 04, 2025
Law Catches Up To Man Accused Of Scamming Saratoga’s $10,000 Ice Fishing Derby
The law has caught up to a man accused of scamming the Saratoga Ice Fishing Derby in 2018. He sold an insurance policy against the derby’s $10,000 prize, and when someone won, didn’t pay out. He’s accused of defrauding others of nearly $1 million.
Renée JeanFebruary 03, 2025
Juvenile Suspected Of Shooting Two At Sweetwater County Bonfire Party
No one was in custody Monday for a shooting in which two young adults were hurt at a Saturday bonfire party outside Reliance, Wyoming. Two people were hospitalized, and the suspected shooter is a juvenile, the Sweetwater County Sheriff's Office says.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 03, 2025
No Charges Filed So Far In Fatal Thermopolis Hit And Run
No criminal charges have been filed so far against a juvenile involved in a fatal hit and run that killed an 85-year-old woman in Thermopolis last week, the Wyoming Highway Patrol said on Saturday.
Clair McFarlandFebruary 01, 2025
Supreme Court Backs Non-Violent Offenders Getting Treatment Instead Of Jail
The Wyoming Supreme Court is supporting a pilot Casper Municipal Court program to get non-violent offenders mental help instead of jail. The program can save the city money and become a model for the rest of the state.
Dale KillingbeckFebruary 01, 2025
Former Bar Nunn Fire Chief Accused Of Stealing From Fill The Boot Fundraiser
The former fire chief for Bar Nunn, Wyoming, was in court Thursday to face multiple felony charges. He’s accused of using a department credit card for personal purchases and stealing more than $2,600 from an MDA Fill the Boot fundraiser.
Dale KillingbeckJanuary 31, 2025
Accused Gillette Kidnapper Doesn't Help Case By Apologizing In Court
A Gillette man accused of kidnapping a woman and leading deputies on a high-speed chase up to 170 mph didn’t help his case by apologizing in court Thursday. Although warned by the judge not to incriminate himself, he said, “I feel sorry for what I did."
Clair McFarlandJanuary 31, 2025
Wyoming One Of 6 States Without Missing Person Protocols; New Law Would Change That
Wyoming is one of six states without protocols for when people go missing. A bill that passed to the state Senate on Thursday would change that, requiring timely reporting and listing on national databases.
Jen KocherJanuary 31, 2025
Montana Drug Trafficker Who Wouldn’t Flip Accused Of Bear Spraying Girlfriend
When a drug smuggler busted in Butte, Montana, wouldn’t flip and become an informant, he went on the run. Then a domestic violence call revealed the true scope of his crime spree, including bear-spraying a girlfriend.
David MadisonJanuary 31, 2025
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