Crime & Courts
News
![Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak said he's concerned about the potential for Denver-area gang violence migrating north. And he's frustrated with a lack of information from other agencies.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Brian-Kozak-submitted-9.6.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Suspected Venezuelan Gang Member In Cheyenne Jail, Sheriff Concerned
Laramie County Sheriff Brian Kozak told Cowboy State Daily a suspected Venezuelan gang member is one of five undocumented aliens in the county jail. He said he is concerned about reported Colorado gang violence because what happens there winds up in Wyoming eventually.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024
![Alisa Jean Gimlin](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Alisa-Jean-Gimlin-Lincoln-County-Courthouse-Kemmerer-9.6.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Afton Woman Accused Of Stealing Blowtorch, Biting People And Trying To Seduce Cop
A highly intoxicated Afton, Wyoming, woman faces multiple charges after allegedly tried to break into a house, stole a blowtorch and drugs, and bit someone. She’s also accused of trying to seduce a deputy during her arrest.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024
![Karla Smith was hospitalized after her 17-year-old son allegedly stabbed her in the back earlier this summer.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/karla-smith-9.6.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Teen Accused Of Stabbing Mom In Back Asks For Mental Health Test
A 17-year-old Campbell County boy accused of stabbing his mother in the back while she was sleeping asked the court Friday for a mental health test. He’s been charged as an adult with attempted first-degree murder.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024
![The Campbell County Courthouse in downtown Gillette, Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Campbell-County-Courthouse-8.30.23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
No New Divorce Trial For Gillette Man Who Claims Wife Tried To Have Him Killed
A judge on Thursday said a Gillette, Wyoming, man’s claims that his wife tried to have him killed aren’t enough to win a new divorce trial. "The allegations show maybe a little smoke ... but don't really show any fire," the judge said.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024
![Top, from left, William Nicholson and Tayren Smith; bottom, Noah Salazar.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Cop-shooting-9.5.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Pair Of Cheyenne Men Accused Of Shooting At Multiple Police Officers
Two Cheyenne men were arrested early Thursday, accused of shooting at two police officers. By pure coincidence, their arrest came just hours after another man accused of firing on one of the shooters earlier this summer turned himself in.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 05, 2024
![Zackery Minard, top left, has been sentenced to 10-14 years in prison for molesting a 14-year-old girl. Timothy "TJ" Ott, lower right, got 9-10 years for beating Minard, throwing him in the trunk of a car and driving him to a remote location and leaving him there.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Zackery-Minard-and-TJ-Ott-9.5.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Gillette Man Who Threw Molester In Car Trunk Gets 9-10 Years, Molester Gets 10-14
A Gillette man who beat and threw a 14-year-old girl’s sexual abuser in a car trunk last year was given 9-10 years in prison last week. Meanwhile, the man he kidnapped got 10-14 years for molesting the girl.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 05, 2024
![The Belle Ayr coal mine south of Gillette in the Powder River Basin of Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Belle-Ayr-Mine-ESM-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
“Go Screw Yourself”: Scrap Buyers Deny Claims They Stole From Wyoming Coal Mine
A father and son from Texas are accused of cheating a Wyoming coal mine out of $70,000 worth of scrap metal. They deny the allegations fiercely, telling Cowboy State Daily to “go screw yourself” for reporting on the case.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 04, 2024
![Someone hit the cannon statue at the Rock Springs World War II memorial, knocking a plaque off of it.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Rock-Springs-cannon-damaged-PD-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Brief: Rock Springs Police Want Truck That Hit Cannon Statue At WWII Memorial
Rock Springs police are looking for an early 1990s model GMC single-cab grey truck suspected of hitting a memorial cannon statue in town. The driver knocked a plaque off the cannon, which is part of a World War II memorial, Tuesday night.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 04, 2024
![Casper police responded to East 12th Street and Country Club Drive early Saturday morning to watch a dark vehicle speed away. After an investigation, a 19-year-old Casper man was arrested on suspicion of pistol-whipping a man and shooting at a car full of people.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Casper-12th-and-Country-Club-1-9.4.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Violent String Of Casper Teen Crimes Continues With Pistol-Whipping, Shooting
A violent monthslong string of teen crime in Casper continues with a pistol-whipping and shooting at a car. A 19-year-old was bound over to felony-level court Tuesday, accused of attacking one person and shooting at a car full of cousins.
Dale KillingbeckSeptember 04, 2024
![Edward Salazar Johnson County Judicial Center courthouses co 9 4 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Edward-Salazar-Johnson-County-Judicial-Center-courthouses.co-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Buffalo Man Accused Of Threatening Grocery Store, Police Standoff
A Buffalo, Wyoming, man faces more than five years in prison on claims he pointed a .223-caliber rifle toward a busy street and grocery store while preparing for a standoff with police on his front porch.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 04, 2024
![Skyler Gray and Shadawn Oehler 9 4 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Skyler-Gray-and-Shadawn-Oehler-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Murder Charge For Lyman Man Accused Of Shooting Man 10 Times With .45
A Lyman, Wyoming, man has been charged with first-degree murder in the death of another man near Fort Bridger over the weekend. The victim was shot roughly 10 times with a .45-caliber handgun.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 03, 2024
![Officials respond to the crash of a small plane crash Sept. 1, 2024, that killed an Arizona woman. The pilot was hurt but is recovering in a Montana hospital.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Plane-crash-Park-County-Sheriffs-Office-9.3.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Hunters In Right Place, Right Time To Rescue Crashed Pilot Near Meeteetse
A Black Hawk pilot and former sports trainer were hunting in the right place at the right time Sunday to rescue a pilot who crashed his plane near Meeteetse, Wyoming. He’s recovering, but a 78-year-old Arizona woman on board was killed in the crash.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 03, 2024
![Arthur Nelson](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Arthur-Nelson-Carbon-County-courthouse-1-9.3.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wrong-Way Driver Who Killed 5 On I-80 Gets 98-110 Years, And Dad’s Forgiveness
The wrong-way driver high on meth who triggered a chain-reaction crash on I-80 last year that killed five young people got 98-110 years in prison Tuesday. He also got forgiveness from the father of two young women he killed.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 03, 2024
![Park county Jimmy Emerson Flickr 9 1 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Park-county-Jimmy-Emerson-Flickr-9.1.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Woman Killed In Plane Crash Near Meeteetse That Also Sparked Fire
The Park County coroner has confirmed one person died, a woman, in a plane crash near Meeteetse, Wyoming, on Sunday. The crash also sparked a fire.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 01, 2024
![Uinta County Sheriff 9.1.24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/448230232_122146059494237432_3679753871663994547_n.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
One Person Dead, 2 Arrested After Shooting Near Fort Bridger Rendezvous
A Saturday evening shooting at a home near the Fort Bridger historic site left one person dead and two arrested. The Uinta County Sheriff’s Office identified the victim late Sunday as Jeremy Jacques, 48.
September 01, 2024
![Still frames from a video showing a pair of men, identified as Nevada residents, vandalizing a 140 million-year-old rock formation at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/giant-rocks-8-31-24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Men Charged With Destroying Ancient Rock Formation Will Likely Get Slap On The Wrist
Although two Nevada men face up to 10 years in prison for allegedly pushing gigantic 140 million-year-old rocks over a cliff at Lake Mead, law enforcement experts say they won’t do any time. They’ll likely get a slap on the wrist, they say.
Mark HeinzAugust 31, 2024
![A 15-year-old Casper boy reportedly said "I hope I killed one" after allegedly shooting five times into a home in the 1100 block of North Durbin Street in Casper, Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/K-Street-and-North-Durbin-Street-Unknown-18.30.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
‘I Hope I Killed One,’ Says Casper Teen Accused Of Shooting 5 Times Into Home
A 15-year-old Casper boy accused of shooting five times into a mobile home reportedly said afterward, “I hope I killed one.” His preliminary hearing was waived Thursday, clearing the way for a felony prosecution.
Dale KillingbeckAugust 30, 2024
![Joseph Beecher was arrested at a Cheyenne motel on Feb. 3, 2022, after kidnapping a woman from Michael Bloomberg's ranch in Colorado, then driving 350 miles to Cheyenne. He was captured by a SWAT team at the Stage Coach Motel.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Joseph-Beecher-and-Stage-Coach-Motel-8.30.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Man Who Took Woman From Bloomberg Ranch, Held Her Hostage At Cheyenne Motel, Convicted
A Colorado man intent on killing media mogul Michael Bloomberg, but instead kidnapped a woman, was convicted Wednesday. He was caught holding her hostage in a Cheyenne motel.
Clair McFarlandAugust 30, 2024
![Christopher Schmidt](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Christopher-Schmidt-plea-8.30.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Casper Man Admits Sex Contact With A Child And Making Child Porn
A 25-year-old Casper admits he had sexual contact with a child, as well as making and possessing child porn. Christopher Schmidt made the admission Friday while pleading guilty to seven felony charges.
Dale KillingbeckAugust 30, 2024
![Jordan Jackson, left, died after he was sold fentanyl-laced drugs by Anthony Fuentes, right. Fuentes was given 15-20 years in prison for manslaughter in Jackson's death.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Fentanyl-sentencing-8.30.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyoming Man Gets 15-20 Years In State’s First Fentanyl Overdose Conviction
A Wyoming man was given 15-20 years in prison Thursday for selling the fentanyl-laced drugs that killed a Cody man last year. It’s Wyoming’s first such conviction.
Jen KocherAugust 30, 2024
![Terri Lesley, former Campbell County Public Library director](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Lesley-and-library-9.28.23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Fired Gillette Librarian Wants To Use Texas Ruling For LGBTQ Discrimination Suit
A Texas court ruling could impact the lawsuit of a former Wyoming librarian fired for refusing to remove books. A Thursday motion from the former Gillette library director says the Texas ruling opens the door for an LGBTQ discrimination claim.
Clair McFarlandAugust 30, 2024
![The trailhead for the Pacific Creek Trail in the Bridger-Teton National Forest.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Pacific-Creek-8.29.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Judge Rejects Self-Defense Claim Of Woman Who Bear-Sprayed Visitor At Campsite
A Wyoming judge on Thursday rejected a tourist’s claim that bear-spraying an unwelcome visitor to her Bridger Teton National Forest campsite was self-defense. Her aggravated assault case can go forward to trial.
Clair McFarlandAugust 30, 2024
![Welcome to Guernsey Platte County 8 29 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Welcome-to-Guernsey-Platte-County-8.29.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Lawyer Who Won $127K For Cheyenne Police Break-In Now Suing Guernsey Cops
A former Guernsey man is suing two cops and the former police chief for tasing him during a warrant service. He’s represented by the same lawyer who just won a $127,000 settlement for a similar case involving a Cheyenne police break-in.
Clair McFarlandAugust 29, 2024
![Dr. Eric Cubin, left, is suing Gov. Mark Gordon for reinstatement to the Wyoming State Board of Medicine.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Eric-Cubin-and-Gordon-8.29.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Casper Doctor Sues Gordon For Forcing Him Off State Board Of Medicine
Dr. Eric Cubin sued Gov. Mark Gordon on Thursday for being forced off the Wyoming State Board of Medicine. Cubin says he was forced to resign after publicly supporting a law banning transgender treatments for children and wants his board seat back.
Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2024
![An array of large shipping containers holding materials to build a proposed Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints temple in Cody are staged at the site.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Cody-Temple-site-with-containers-1-5.11.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Judge Gives Final Go-Ahead For Controversial 101-Foot-Tall Cody LDS Temple
The drama and legal wrangling over a controversial 101-foot-tall LDS temple in Cody, Wyoming, appears to be over — at least for now. A judge has ruled against a temple opposition group, clearing the way for construction to begin.
Leo WolfsonAugust 29, 2024
![Three members of The Nelons gospel quartet were killed in a July 2024 plane crash in northeast Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/The-Nelons-8.29.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Pilot Declared Emergency Before Plane Crash That Killed Gospel Group
The pilot declared an emergency before it crashed in northeast Wyoming in late July, killing all seven on board, according to a Wednesday NTSB report. Among those killed were three members of the Gospel Hall of Fame group The Nelons.
Clair McFarlandAugust 29, 2024
![Gillette police 5 31 23](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/gillette-police-5.31.23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyoming Suspect Gives Up Cocaine And Fentanyl Hidden In Buttocks
A Gillette man saved himself a felony charge Tuesday night when he gave up the cocaine and fentanyl he had hidden in his buttocks. Even more common are suspects claiming they’re not wearing their own pants.
Greg JohnsonAugust 28, 2024
![Huge plumes of smoke rise from the grasslands near Gillette in Campbell County.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Campbell-County-fires-smoke-8.28.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
People Keep Calling Local 911 Lines To Report Wildfires Already Being Fought
With local agencies stretched thin fighting large wildfires in northeast Wyoming, they say a large number of 911 calls stretch them more. In many cases, people are reporting smoke from fires already being fought.
Clair McFarlandAugust 28, 2024
![Police and emergency responders are positioned on Lexington Avenue in Gillette on Aug. 24, 2024, in response to a standoff-style situation.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Gillette-Standoff-20240824_134114-8.27.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Gillette Man Barricades Self In Room After Asking Mom, “Do You Want To Die?”
A Gillette man was in court Monday after creating a standoff-style scene in a Gillette neighborhood over the weekend. He allegedly beat his mother, threatened her with a knife and asked her, “do you want to die?”
Clair McFarlandAugust 27, 2024
![Joshua Hayden-Ali, 43, aka "Wisdom," is known around Cheyenne for throwing "hexes" at people, threatening them with a staff and making death threats. He now faces a felony charge for allegedly tearing up a local election center.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Voodoo-man-8.27.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Cheyenne’s “Voodoo Man” Accused Of Tearing Up Election Center
Cheyenne’s “Voodoo Man” stands 6-foot-4, throws “hexes” at people, threatens them with a staff and spews death threats. He’s accused of tearing up an election center Aug. 6, and his case was elevated Friday to felony-level court.
Clair McFarlandAugust 27, 2024
![Michael Hughes](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Michael-Hughes-Casper-PD-Car-8.27.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Off-Duty Casper Cop Shot At Deputies During Alcohol-Fueled Standoff
Off-duty Casper Police Officer Michael Hughes was drinking heavily when he shot at deputies during a 17-hour standoff that ended Friday. He was in court Monday and remains in the Natrona County Jail on $500,000 bond.
Dale KillingbeckAugust 27, 2024
![Officer Logan Alley](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Logan-Alley-Riverton-city-hall-police-89.27.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Riverton Police Officer Faces Felony For Receiving Illegal Steroids
A Riverton police officer accused of receiving illegal steroids by mail was served with a felony charge Monday. Logan Alley allegedly told investigators “maybe not the extent” when asked if he knew the drugs were illegal.
Clair McFarlandAugust 27, 2024
![A dark mass of smoke rises from the Flat Rock Fire west of Gillette in Campbell County.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Flat-Rock-Fire-gary-hobbs-via-Wyoming-State-Forestry-Division-8.27.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Progress Made On Wildfires That Have Burned 460,000 Acres In Wyoming, Montana
Rain helped crews make progress on two of Wyoming’s five major wildfires Monday, though a third that saw rain didn't benefit much from it. The fires have burned nearly 460,000 acres in Wyoming and southern Montana but showed little growth Monday.
Clair McFarlandAugust 27, 2024
![Private-sector construction crews have brought their own machines to the fire perimeters in Campbell County, amid tensions about the county fire department’s approach to the blazes.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Dozers-fighting-fires-8.26.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Critics Claim Wyoming Fire Department “Didn’t Lift A Finger” To Stop Wildfires
Some heavy equipment operators in northeast Wyoming claim the Campell County Fire Department “didn’t lift a finger” to help them stop a pair of large wildfires. Others, however, say that claim is baseless and the CCFD is saving their land.
Clair McFarlandAugust 26, 2024
![A variety of delta-8 THC products at Black Market Vape & Smoke in Cheyenne in this file photo.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Cheyenne-delta-8-9.19.23.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Judge Tosses Lawsuit To Halt Wyoming’s New THC Laws, Wyoming Sellers To Appeal
A judge dismissed their lawsuit challenging a new Wyoming law restricting the amount of THC legal for sale in Wyoming. But state hemp and THC sellers are taking their case to the federal appeals court.
Clair McFarlandAugust 26, 2024
![Cheyenne Police Department at 415 W. 18th St., Cheyenne, Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Cheyenne-Police-Department-IMG_1266-8.26.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyoming To Pay $127,500 For Cops’ Illegal Entry, Takedown Of Cheyenne Man
Wyoming is paying $127,500 to a Cheyenne man who was arrested after police entered his home illegally to arrest him four years ago. The Friday settlement ends a lawsuit against three former Cheyenne police officers.
Clair McFarlandAugust 26, 2024
![Michael Hughes](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Michael-Hughes-Casper-standoff-todd-8.23.241000012153-8.23.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Off-Duty Casper Police Officer Faces 6 Felonies From Armed Standoff
An off-duty Casper Police Department officer faces six felony charges following an armed 17-hour standoff that ended Friday. On Monday, CPD Chief Keith McPheeters said the incident has “reverberated throughout our entire department.”
Dale KillingbeckAugust 26, 2024
![Crews worked to save the historic Poker Jim Fire Lookout tower in Custer National Forest, Montana, from the Remington Fire. "Flames burned under and past the station but rendered no notable damage to the structure," the BLM reports.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Remington-Fire-lookout-4-8.26.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Remington Fire Now At 200,000 Acres, But Wildfire East Of Gillette Has Priority
The Remington Fire that started in Wyoming and sprinted into Montana has grown to about 200,000 acres Monday and is 5% contained. But because of nearby residential and ranch neighborhoods, a 53,000-acre blaze west of Gillette has priority.
Clair McFarlandAugust 26, 2024
![Renee Yeargain of Torrington, Wyoming, disappeared Aug. 9, 2004.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Renee-Yeargain-Casper_Star_Tribune_2005_05_07_15-copy-8.25.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
It’s Been 20 Years Since Renee Yeargain Disappeared From A Wyoming Rest Stop
It’s been two decades since Renee Yeargain fled her Torrington, Wyoming, home and disappeared at a highway rest stop. She’s still missing, but family and friends won’t give up investigating what happened to her.
Jen KocherAugust 25, 2024
![Charlie Lawrence](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/charlie-lawrence-Riverton-8.25.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Riverton Fire Department Disavows Former Member After Sex Assault Claims
The Riverton Volunteer Fire Department has disavowed a retired firefighter accused of sexually attacking women. The agency says Charlie Lawrence retired in 2020 and no longer has a connection with the department.
Clair McFarlandAugust 25, 2024
![Donnie Smith and his gold GMC Envoy.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Donnie-Smith-missing-8.24.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Urgent Search On For Missing Laramie Man With Dementia
The family of Donnie Smith is urgently searching for him. He was last seen Wednesday, is 79 and suffering from dementia.
Jen KocherAugust 24, 2024
![Ranchers and construction workers are helping build fire lines around the huge House Draw Fire in Johnson County.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/House-Draw-Fire-dozer-8.23.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Construction Crews, Ranchers With Weed Sprayers Battle Huge Wyoming Fires
With aggressive wildfires having already burned 250,000 acres across northern Wyoming, it’s all hands on deck. In addition to firefighters, construction crews with bulldozers and ranchers with weed sprayers are also on the fire lines.
Clair McFarland & Jackie DorothyAugust 23, 2024
![An apartment building was evacuated while Casper police negotiated with a suspect barricaded in one of the apartments Friday.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Casper-standoff-todd-8.23.241000012153-8.23.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
16-Hour Standoff At Casper Apartment Ends With Nobody Hurt
A standoff with a subject barricaded in a Casper apartment since about 11:30 p.m. Thursday is over. The standoff ended "peacefully" Friday afternoon after about 16 hours.
Clair McFarlandAugust 23, 2024
![The Remington Fire in Sheridan County, like others in northern Wyoming, continues to grow and tax firefighting resources.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Remington-Fire-Jim-Sullivan-to-Western-Wildfire-Insight-1-8.23.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wildfires Have Ravaged More Than 250,000 Acres Across Northern Wyoming
Friday update: Wildfires raging across northern Wyoming have burned more than 250,000 acres. No deaths or injuries have been reported, but agencies have had to call in firefighting machines and personnel from many other regions.
Clair McFarlandAugust 23, 2024
![Lander police 8 25 22](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/lander-police-8-25-22.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Brief: Police Suspect Shooting-Suicide At Lander Apartment Complex
Police in Lander, Wyoming, are investigating a person who shot another then shot his- or herself Friday morning. An investigation continues, and police say there’s no threat to the community.
Clair McFarlandAugust 23, 2024
![Fremont county courthouse 3 8 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Fremont-county-courthouse-3.8.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Riverton Man Accused Of Offering Women Rides, Then Attacking Them
A Riverton man faces up to 35 years in prison for allegedly offering women rides, then sexually attacking them. He case rose to felony-level court Tuesday.
Clair McFarlandAugust 23, 2024
![The Remington Fire is burning in northern Sheridan County near the Montana border.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Remington-Fire-123_1-1-8.22.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
With Wildfires Burning All Around, Sheridan County Fights Its Own 10,000-Acre Blaze
With wildfires burning more than 200,000 acres nearby, firefighting resources are thin in northern Wyoming. Sheridan County is pressing on fighting its own 10,000-acre blaze near the Montana state line.
Clair McFarlandAugust 22, 2024
![Jaime Cronin encountered the Barber Fire as she drove home to Casper from Greeley, Colorado, on Wednesday evening. She snuck through Interstate 25 just before authorities closed it from Douglas to Casper.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Converse-County-Fire-courtesy-Jaime-Cronin.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Much Of Northern Wyoming Is On Fire, But Converse County Is OK For Now
Lightning-caused fires are devouring huge swaths of northern Wyoming, but to the south, Converse County got a lucky break when a Wednesday-evening rainstorm helped stifle its large fire.
Clair McFarlandAugust 22, 2024
![Huge plumes of smoke from the House Creek Fire as it burns past the home of Ashley Malcom near Buffalo, Wyoming. Malcom said the fire moved fast, but thankfully missed her property.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/House-Creek-Fire-1-8.22.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Northern Wyoming Wildfire Explodes To Nearly 200,000 Acres, Others Also Burning
A wildfire burning out of control in northern Wyoming east of Buffalo has exploded and is pushing 200,000 acres. Ranchers are scrambling to help fight that and other wildfires in the area to save their homes and animals.
Clair McFarland & Jen KocherAugust 22, 2024
![The Horse Draw Fire in Johnson County flared up Wednesday, forcing a closure of Interstate 90 and evacuations. In this still shot from a short video posted by YouTube user @bec4337, huge plumes of smoke are ahead as cars are stranded on a closed I-90.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Horse-Draw-buffalo-fire-2-from-short-8.21.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Northern Wyoming Wildfire Spreads To 5,000-Plus Acres, Forces Evacuations
A wildfire spread to more than 5,000 acres Wednesday, forcing about 10 Johnson County families to evacuate. It’s also shut down I-90 between Buffalo and Gillette.
Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024
![Six times in the past four months, an arrangement of dead animals has been left at the intersetion of South Greeley Highway and East Nation Road in Cheyenne.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/dead-animals-in-cheyenne-carcasses-8.21.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
“We Don’t Get It”: Someone Keeps Arranging Dead Animals At Cheyenne Intersection
Six times in the past four months, someone has arranged dead animals at Cheyenne intersection. The carcasses are all intact and seem to be purposely left. “It’s certainly bizarre,” an Animal Control officer says. “We don’t get it either.”
Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024
![Most discussion about the plans for Hot Springs State Park have turned around what's happening to the Star Plunge, but the plan's scope is much larger than any one amenity.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Star-Plunge-20240428_200341-5.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Star Plunge Operator Claims Wyoming Agency Cheated It Out Of Lease Deal
The Thermopolis company that’s operated the Star Plunge hot springs for nearly 50 years is suing over losing its contract. It claims Wyoming State Parks cheated it in favor of a new concessionaire.
Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024
![A tanker hauling jet fuel crashed on Interstate 80 near Wamsutter early Wednesday morning, spilling about 1,500 gallons of fuel and shutting down the interstate for several hours.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/wamsutter-jet-fuel-spill-8.21.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Tanker Truck Rolls, Spills 1,500 Gallons Of Jet Fuel On Interstate 80
A tanker truck crashed into an occupied and parked car on I-80 overnight Tuesday, rolled and spilled about 1,500 gallons of jet fuel. Wamsutter fire plugged the leaks to prevent the rest of the tanker's 10,000 gallons from gushing out.
Clair McFarlandAugust 21, 2024
![Honeycomb Buttes in Wyoming's Red Desert.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Honeycomb-Buttes-Red-Desert-8.20.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyoming May Help Utah Sue For Control Of Its Federal Land
Gov. Mark Gordon said Wyoming is studying ways to support Utah in its quest to gain control of federal land in that state. Utah filed a U.S. Supreme Court case Tuesday aimed toward gaining control of 18 million acres of its federal lands.
Clair McFarlandAugust 20, 2024
![William Ewan Brennan IV](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/William-Ewan-Brennan-IV-8.20.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Brief: Texas Man Pleads Not Guilty To Taking Photos Up Girl’s Shorts At Carnival
A Texas man caught allegedly taking photos up the shorts of a young girl at the Teton County Carnival has pleaded not guilty.
Clair McFarlandAugust 20, 2024
![Wade Earl Schear](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Wade-Earl-Schear-and-Chugwater-8.20.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Turns Out The Cops Were Already Tracking Wyoming Man’s Alleged VW Meth Bug
State police were already tracking a purple Volkswagen Bug that prompted a traffic stop when it broke down in a cloud of diesel smoke in Chugwater, Wyoming, suspected of bringing meth from Colorado.
Clair McFarlandAugust 20, 2024
![Roberto Velazquez Mayorga, left, and Agustin Johnathan Camargo](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Sex-trafficking-arrest-8.19.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Man Suspected Of Sex Trafficking Teen Also Accused Of Sneaking Drugs Into Jail
A New Mexico man stopped in Wyoming is suspected of sex trafficking a teen girl. He’s also accused of sneaking fentanyl into the Uinta County Jail. His case rose to felony-level court Friday.
Clair McFarlandAugust 19, 2024
![Zachary DeMoss has a long road to recovery ahead of him after he was found surviving on creek water in a sparse Idaho region Friday. DeMoss’ motorcycle collided with a tree after he swerved to miss a deer Aug. 11, his friend told Cowboy State Daily](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Missing-biker-Zachary-DeMoss-8.19.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Montana Motorcyclist Missing For 5 Days Swerved To Miss A Deer
A Montana motorcyclist who was missing for five days and survived by drinking creek water is recovering in a Missoula hospital. Friends say he crashed into a tree when he swerved to miss a deer on the road.
Clair McFarlandAugust 19, 2024
![Larry Marvin Morris, a 24-year-old college student from Oklahoma, disappeared somewhere between Riverton and Yellowstone National Park on April 24, 1974. It remains the state agency's oldest unsolved missing person case.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Larry-Morris-Wind-River-Canyon-8.18.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
After 50 Years, Wyoming’s Oldest Missing Person Case May Never Be Solved
It’s the case that still haunts the former Fremont County coroner 50 years later — what happened to Larry Morris? He disappeared in 1974 and may never be found now that the men suspected of killing him have died.
Jen KocherAugust 18, 2024
![Zachary DeMoss, 24, of Victor, Idaho, was traveling with his friends Devlin Zarn and Aly Phan on his black Kawasaki Vulcan 2000 motorcycle on Aug. 11, 2024, when he vanished.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/missing-sturgis-guy-8-13-24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Missing Montana Motorcyclist Found Alive In Idaho Surviving On Creek Water
Zachary DeMoss of Montana vanished without a trace Sunday during a Western states motorcycle trip with his buddies. After an intense five-day search, he was found Friday surviving on creek water.
Clair McFarlandAugust 16, 2024