Headlines
Explore a chronological display of Cowboy State Daily’s articles.
News
![The courthouse in Basin, Wyoming, where two prisoners in the Big Horn County jail had been tried a found guilty of murder.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/1903-mob-Basin-Courthouse-9.7.24.png?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
The Angry Mob That Got Away With Killing 2 Murderers In Basin Jail
An angry mob wasn’t willing to wait for the state to hang two murderers in the Basin, Wyoming, jail in 1903. They shot them both in their jail cells — and killed a deputy — and got away with it because nobody would testify against them.
Dale KillingbeckSeptember 07, 2024
![Sam Hampton has spent a lifetime on horses, and will be inducted into the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame next month.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Sam-Hampton-Cowboy-Hall-of-Fame-Unknown-9.7.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame: Sam Hampton Spent A Lifetime On Horses
Sam Hampton is a legacy Wyoming rancher who lives by his own cowboy Golden Rule, which says, “To have good neighbors, first you have to be one.” This Washakie County pioneer will be inducted into the Wyoming Cowboy Hall of Fame in October.
Candy MoultonSeptember 07, 2024
![Though they’re frequently spotted alone, most coyotes are members of a mated pair, and frequently an entire pack.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Pack-of-coyotes-9.7.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
‘Lone Coyote’ Belief In Wyoming Is A Myth — They Form Packs, Much Like Wolves
The idea that coyotes are loners is easy to believe because they’re usually seen alone, but that’s actually a myth, wildlife biologists say. They form packs and family units, much like wolves.
Mark HeinzSeptember 07, 2024
![Auto scams 9 7 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Auto-scams-9.7.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Aaron Turpen: How To Avoid Some Common Auto Repair Scams, And Some That Aren’t
Automotive writer Aaron Turpen writes, "There are a lot of scams, many of which are legal, in the car selling and repair business. Luckily, it doesn’t take a lot of knowledge to avoid most of them."
Aaron TurpenSeptember 07, 2024
![Pinedale photographer Dave Bell set up three cameras to get images of an intense lightning storm south of the town, which he calls the most spectacular he's ever seen.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Dave-Bell-lightning-5-9.7.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Spectacular Lightning Storm Over Pinedale Might Be Best (And Last) Of Summer
Wyoming photographer Dave Bell was about to go to bed, but the thunderstorm wouldn’t let him sleep. Instead, he set up three cameras earlier this week and captured the most spectacular lightning storm he’s ever seen.
Andrew RossiSeptember 07, 2024
![Eastbound Interstate 80 at milepost 223 is closed after two semitrailers crashed Saturday morning.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Fatal-semi-crash-9.7.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
One Dead After Fiery Semi Crash On Interstate 80 Near Rawlins
A fiery and fatal crash involving two semitrailers Saturday morning closed eastbound I-80 for miles before and after Rawlins for most of the day. It also cut off a number of Wyoming football fans from the team’s home opener.
Greg JohnsonSeptember 07, 2024
![No vax 9 8 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/no-vax-9-8-24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Letter To The Editor: No Need For Anti-Science People In The Healthcare Profession
Dear editor: We certainly don’t need anti-science, self-centered individuals like Rep Ward’s daughter in the healthcare profession.
September 07, 2024
![Vaccination 9 8 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/vaccination-9-8-24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Letter To The Editor: We Better Be Careful With Not Requiring Some Vaccinations
Dear editor: We need to be thinking carefully as to what the fallout could be if our healthcare workers are not required to be vaccinated and/or tested for preventable disease.
September 07, 2024
![Joan barron headshot 5 4 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/joan-barron-headshot-5-4-24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Joan Barron: A Year Before College Well Spent
Columnist Joan Barron writes, "I’ll bet your average plumber makes more money than a regular English graduate. And that may be one reason more people than ever are questioning whether college is worth the time and expense."
Joan BarronSeptember 07, 2024
![Bill sniffin headshot 7 20 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/bill-sniffin-headshot-7-20-24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Bill Sniffin: "The Dog Ate My Homework" And More On The Old Farts Clubs
Bill Sniffin writes, “No matter how legitimate, excuses just sound like ‘the dog ate my homework’ to some people.”
Bill SniffinSeptember 07, 2024
![Along with the roadside sign, the Moorcroft Motel's parking lot sign also is unique and retro.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Moorcourt-Motel-sign-2-9.7.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Gillette Auto Museum Rescuing, Restoring Vintage Signs For Retro “Neon Park”
The old neon Moorcourt Motel sign is the latest in the growing collection of vintage roadside signs for Gillette’s Frontier Auto Museum in Gillette. The vision is to create a colorful retro “neon park.”
Andrew RossiSeptember 07, 2024
![The legend that Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane were lovers is false. In this famous photograph, she poses at Wild Bill's grave. She's buried near him.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Wild-Bill-Hickok-and-Calamity-Jane-at-his-grave-getty-9.7.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
The American West: Debunking Three Deadwood Wild Bill Hickok Legends
Warning: You may not want to read any further if you don’t like the idea of a legend being debunked. Many legends swirl around Wild Bill Hickok. Three of these are associated with his stay in Deadwood, Dakota Territory, in 1876.
Bill MarkleySeptember 07, 2024
![The Beutler and Son Rodeo Co. in Elk City, Oklahoma, has been raising bucking rodeo horses for 95 years. This past week, nearly 80 of the ranch's horses were killed by poisoned feed.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Poisoned-horses-group-9.7.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Nearly 80 Bucking Horses Killed By Tainted Feed Devastates Rodeo Community
A batch of tainted feed killed nearly 80 premier bucking horses on the Beutler Ranch in Oklahoma last week and has devastated the greater rodeo community. The only surviving horse of that lineage was recently ridden to victory by Roedy Farrell of Thermopolis.
Jackie DorothySeptember 07, 2024
![State Rep. Jeanette Ward, R-Casper.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Jeanette-Ward-6.15.23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Letter To The Editor: Rep. Ward's Daughter May Have Acted In Haste
Dear editor: To Rep. Ward’s daughter, I only wish you had stayed in the nursing program long enough to realize and learn about what you don’t know.
September 07, 2024
![Central Wyoming College](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Central-Wyoming-College-Wyoming-Community-College-Commission-9.6.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Central Wyoming College Pushes Back On Jeanette Ward’s COVID Claims
Central Wyoming College is pushing back on claims state Rep. Jeanette Ward made about its COVID policies. CWC does not require testing or vaccines for students, but some of the private facilities it works with do.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 07, 2024
![Power lines and turbines 10 30 23](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Power-lines-and-turbines-10.30.23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Former Top Colorado Regulator Predicts A Shakeup For Wyoming Power Co-ops
Raymond Gifford, a former chairman of the Colorado Public Utilities Commission, says a shakeup is coming for Wyoming’s power cooperatives. He's also the lawyer helping electricity co-ops leave Tri-State Generation.
Pat MaioSeptember 07, 2024
![The Roundup Ulrich](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/The-Roundup-Ulrich.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
The Roundup: A Conversation With Paul Ulrich
This week, host Wendy Corr chats with "Noted Wyoming Outdoorsman" Paul Ulrich. From growing up in the fossil beds of the Green River Formation near Kemmerer, to his career in the energy industry, Paul talks about conservation, fly fishing, politics, and the Wyoming way of life.
Wendy CorrSeptember 06, 2024
![Former Vice President Dick Cheney, left, and Vice President Kamala Harris.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Dick-cheney-and-kamala-harris-9.6.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Like Father, Like Daughter: Now Dick Cheney Endorses Kamala
Just days after former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney announced her support of Kamala Harris, her father Dick Cheney said he was supporting her too.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024
![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
![Cody resident David Ball was hunting in Namibia, Africa last week, when a deadly black mamba snake appeared in camp. He shot and killed the snake, which measured out to 7 feet, 4 inches long.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Black-mamba-dave-snake-2-9.6.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyoming Hunters Faced Killer Black Mambas While On Safari Last Week In Africa
Wyoming hunters know bears are some of the most feared and deadly predators you can run into. Dealing with black mambas can be just as deadly, if not more so. Two hunters from Cody dealt with them last week while on a safari in Africa.
Mark HeinzSeptember 06, 2024
![Dennis sun 1 25 23](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/dennis-sun-1-25-23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Dennis Sun: What Will Food Costs Do Before The Election?
Columnist Dennis Sun writes, "With the general election coming up in a couple of months, the price for food is a big issue. Most people say the high prices are unfair, but they keep rising."
Dennis SunSeptember 06, 2024
![Lange at chic fil a](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/lange-at-chic-fil-a.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Jonathan Lange: Compulsory Content For Preschool Is The Devil’s Playground
Columnist Jonathan Lange writes: “Last year a bill that would lower the age for compulsory school attendance from 7 to 6 years old failed an introductory vote by 7-24. Now, the education lobby wants to compel not only 6-year-olds, but 3-year-olds as well. Parents are wise to be wary.”
Jonathan LangeSeptember 06, 2024
![Cheyenne Democrat Jen Solis stands with one of her “Republicans For Jen Solis” yard signs.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Republicans-for-Solis-9.6.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyoming Dems Hope To Gain Ground After Freedom Caucus Primary Surge
After a primary election surge by the farther right Wyoming Freedom Caucus, Wyoming Democrats hope to gain legislative seats in November. They’re counting on votes from other Republicans who opposed the Freedom Caucus.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024
![Rod miller headshot scaled](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/rod-miller-headshot-scaled.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Rod Miller: Tyin’ the Knot – Wyoming Style
Columnist Rod Miller writes, "It is a little-known and under-appreciated fact around the ol’ campfire that I am a man of the cloth, and am ordained to perform weddings, circumcisions and exorcisms. I have officiated at five weddings to date. All five couples are still married and happy together."
Rod MillerSeptember 06, 2024
![Chris Mickey was able to take the photo of the World View Enterprise balloon as it hovered over Cheyenne on Thursday night, Sept. 5, 2024.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Sketch-Balloon-9.6.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Mysterious Object Flying Over Cheyenne Was Not A Chinese Spy Balloon
A mysterious balloon spotting floating high over Cheyenne on Thursday wasn’t a Chinese spy balloon. Turns out, it’s carrying data-gathering equipment to improve flight safety for a private company’s partnership with NASA.
Jackie DorothySeptember 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
![Colorado-based Energy Fuels Inc. plans to ramp up its uranium production at its sites in Wyoming. Pictured is one of the comnpany's White Mesa Mill operation in Utah](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Energy-Fuels-utah-operation-5.7.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyoming Rare Earth Miner Expands Global Reach, Buys Australian Company
Energy Fuels Inc., which is preparing to ramp up its Nichols Ranch uranium mine near Kaycee, Wyoming, is expanding. It’s close to buying a critical rare earth minerals company in Australia.
Pat MaioSeptember 06, 2024
![Wendy thumbnail 9 6](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Wendy-thumbnail-9-6.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Cowboy State Daily Video News: Friday, September 6, 2024
Friday's headlines include: • Few Answers From Postal Service • Cheyenne Men Accused Of Shooting At Police • Steep Rise In "Unnatural Deaths" In Natrona, Campbell Counties
Wendy CorrSeptember 06, 2024
![The Fish Creek Fire in northwest Wyoming threatens to jump Highway 26/287.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Fish-Creek-Fire-2-US-Forest-Service-9.5.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Fish Creek Fire Throws “Spot Fires” Across Togwotee Pass
After the Fish Creek fire lapped at the barrow ditches along Togwotee Pass and prompted its closure Monday night, the mountain stretch of highway is set to reopen Friday morning.
Clair McFarlandSeptember 06, 2024
![Rep. Jeanette Ward, R-Casper](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Jeanette-Ward-1.18.23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Guest Column: Why Wyoming Is Losing Healthcare Workers
Rep. Jeanette Ward writes, "Today my daughter decided to leave the nursing program and instead study Health Science, in the hopes that the WY legislature will do its job and protect medical freedom in the next two years, after which time she can pursue a nursing degree at a 4-year college."
CSD StaffSeptember 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
![Hunter Biden and U.S. Sen. Harriet Hageman](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Hunter-Biden-and-Harriet-Hageman-3.5.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Hageman Says Hunter Biden Guilty Plea Tip Of The Iceberg Of Corruption
U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman says Thursday’s surprise guilty plea from Hunter Biden is just the tip of the iceberg of corruption associated with the White House. She said President Biden and Vice President Harris also are suspect.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 06, 2024
![Anthony Schmidt](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Anthony-Schmidt-9.3.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Letter To The Editor: Republicans Don't Care About Real Issues
Dear editor: Leo Wolfson's article about the sex-offender who is running for Laramie County Community College Trustee, is a perfect example of the shiny-object politics that is the favorite-play of today's Republican Party.
September 06, 2024
![Customers use the drive-thru drop-off boxes at the U.S. Post Office annex at 4800 Converse Ave. in Cheyenne.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/US-Post-Office-Cheyenne-1-9.5.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Wyomingites Have Lots Of Questions About USPS Rural Mail Plan, Get Few Answers
The U.S. Postal Service’s public forum on Thursday was long on questions and short on answers. Wyomingites showed up in force to complain about a proposal that likely means longer delivery times across much, if not all, of the state.
Renée JeanSeptember 05, 2024
![Long coal trains pull in and out of the North Antelope Rochelle mine in Campbell County, Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Coal-NARM-trains-Kimon-Berlin-Flickr-5.6.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
After Hedge Fund Buys 10% Of Peabody, It Wants Company To Buy Back $1.4B In Stock
At the urging of a hedge fund in Texas that bought nearly 10% of Peabody Energy, the company is accelerating efforts to develop “existing assets.” That includes urging the company to spend $1.46 billion on buying back shares of its stock.
Pat MaioSeptember 05, 2024
![Highland Cemetery in Casper, Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Casper-cemetery-2-9.5.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Fatal Crashes, Killings And Suicides “Through The Roof” In Natrona County
Fatal crashes, killings and suicides are “through the roof” so far in 2024, the Natrona County Coroner reports. They’re up in northeast Wyoming, too.
Dale KillingbeckSeptember 05, 2024
![Dave Ratzlaff, owner of a 1969 Chevrolet Camero, talks about his car with WyoTech student David Solis at the Goodguys Rod & Custom Association car show on the WyoTech campus in Laramie on Thursday.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/WyoTech-Car-Show-Camaro-talk-9.5.24.jpeg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Custom Car Nuts Show WyoTech Students Hot-Rodding Isn’t Just An ‘Old Man Hobby’
WyoTech students got to ogle custom-built rides during an exclusive car show Thursday. It was an effective pitch that building hotrods isn’t just an “old man hobby.”
Mark HeinzSeptember 05, 2024
![A row of high-voltage power transmission lines running through southern Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/wyoming-high-voltage-lines-9.5.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Growing Energy Supplier Eyes Larger Toehold In Wyoming's Shifting Power Market
Guzman Energy, a Denver-based wholesale power provider with funding from a Walmart heir, eyes gaining a larger toehold in Wyoming and the Western U.S. Guzman also refutes claims by some critics who worry the company can’t deliver on promises.
Pat MaioSeptember 05, 2024
![Sally ann headshot 12 28 23](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/sally-ann-headshot-12-28-23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Sally Ann Shurmur: Welcome To Laramie, It's Just Different
Columnist Sally Ann Shurmur writes, "I would not want to be the Idaho Vandals this week. I think the Pokes are ready to deliver a beatdown. And I think the defense will remember what the hell they are supposed to do."
Sally Ann ShurmurSeptember 05, 2024
![Rex Rammell](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Rex-Rammell.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Perennial Candidate Rex Rammell Says He’s Done With Politics, America Doomed
Rock Springs resident Rex Rammell has been a fixture in Wyoming elections since 2016, running for Congress and governor. Now he says he’s done with politics and feels America is doomed.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 05, 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
![Wendy thumbnail 9 5](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Wendy-thumbnail-9-5.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Cowboy State Daily Video News: Thursday, September 5, 2024
Thursday's headlines include: - Proposed Law Won't Outlaw Hitting Wolves With Snowmobiles - USPS Shuts Out Wyomingites Who Want To Comment On Rural Delivery Plan - “Go Screw Yourself”: Scrap Buyers Deny Claims They Stole From Wyoming Coal Mine
Wendy CorrSeptember 05, 2024
![Vice President Kamala Harris, left, and Liz Cheney.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Harris-and-Cheney-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Surprise (Or Not) — Liz Cheney Says She’ll Vote For Kamala Harris For President
Longtime Republican and former Wyoming congresswoman Liz Cheney announced Wednesday she’ll vote for Vice President Kamala Harris for president.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 05, 2024
![Highway patrol pull over](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/highway-patrol-pull-over.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Could Wyoming Legislators Get Out Of Tickets Through “Legislative Privilege?”
A Colorado state lawmaker recently got out of a speeding ticket by claiming “legislative privilege.” It’s unclear whether the Wyoming Constitution would allow legislators to claim that in the Cowboy State.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 05, 2024
![Power lines 5 17 23](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Power-lines-5.17.23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Letter To The Editor: Rate Hikes Are Causing Serious Financial Hardships
Dear editor: Black Hills Energy and Rocky Mountain Power make huge profits annually benefitting from failed green energy policies as they blame green energy implementation for the need to increase rates. Enough.
September 05, 2024
![The Fish Creek Fire continues to burn in rugged territory, consuming beetle-killed timber.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Fish-Creek-Fire-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Fish Creek Fire Makes Run At Brooks Lake Lodge, Firefighters Hold Line
A stubborn Fish Creek Fire made an aggressive run at Highway 26/287, close to Brooks Lake Lodge in northwest Wyoming, but firefighters held the line. It's just a mile or two from the lodge as of Wednesday evening.
Renée JeanSeptember 05, 2024
![People who showed up to the Treatment of Predators Working Group meeting at the Wyoming Capitol on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, found that the group was meeting via Zoom and they couldn't comment.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Predator-meeting-1-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Proposed Law Says Running Over Wolf With Snowmobile OK But Only If You Kill It
A new proposed law would allow people to be charged with animal cruelty if they run animals down with snowmobiles and don't kill them immediately. A state predator working group on Wednesday voted to advance the bill to a legislative committee.
Mark HeinzSeptember 04, 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
![Donald Trump 9 4 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Donald-Trump-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Trump’s Flip On Abortion Not A Big Issue With Many In Wyoming
Former President Donald Trump’s flip on abortion has made national news. But many pro-life and pro-choice people in Wyoming say it’s not a big issue.
Leo WolfsonSeptember 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
Brian Nesvik Led Game And Fish Career Through COVID, Daniel Wolf Controversy
Over nearly 30 years, Brian Nesvik worked his way up through the ranks of Wyoming Game and Fish from applying for a temp job to agency director. The last years of that have been trying times with COVID and the Daniel wolf controversy.
Mark HeinzSeptember 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
![Lubnau head 2](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/lubnau-head-2.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Tom Lubnau: Give The Freedom Caucus The Benefit Of The Doubt
Columnist Tom Lubnau writes: "I have learned to trust the collective wisdom of the Wyoming voters. They are the carny operating the ride. I may not understand why the voters made their choices, but I have learned there is a level of wisdom behind the voter’s choice, and to search for what that wisdom is."
Tom LubnauSeptember 04, 2024
![Lines were long Monday at the U.S. Postal Service office at Capitol Avenue in Cheyenne.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Cheyenne-Post-Office-Lines-were-long-at-the-U.S.-Postal-Service-Office-at-Capitol-Avenue-in-Cheyenne.-12.10.23.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
USPS Shuts Out Wyomingites Who Want To Comment On Rural Delivery Plan
Wyoming residents trying to register for a Thursday virtual public forum to comment on the latest USPS plan to increase rural delivery times are out of luck. Registration to speak closed at noon Tuesday, but almost nobody knew about that.
Renée JeanSeptember 04, 2024
![Black Hills Energy office at 1301 W. 24th St. in Cheyenne.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Black-Hills-Energy-2-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
California Grid Operator’s Expansion Into Wyoming Includes Black Hills Energy
The California power operator that manages the flow of electricity across 26,000 miles of high-voltage power lines has added Black Hills Corp. in Wyoming to its system.
Pat MaioSeptember 04, 2024
![U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, left, and U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman, R-Wyoming.](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/Jon-Tester-and-Harriet-Hageman-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Montana Dem Group Tries To Buy Support From College Athletes For Sen. Jon Tester
A Montana group offered to pay college athletes to support Democrat Sen. Jon Tester in his reelection campaign. Wyoming’s delegation is slamming the move, with Hariett Hageman calling it an “asinine and embarrassing campaign tactic.”
Leo WolfsonSeptember 04, 2024
![Wyoming cattle 9 4 24](https://cowboystatedaily.imgix.net/wyoming-cattle-9.4.24.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&q=75&auto=format%2Ccompress&ar=16%3A9&fit=crop)
Anthrax Outbreak In Carbon County Kills At Least 50 Cattle, Also Found In Moose
An outbreak of anthrax in Carbon County has killed at least 50 cattle, the Wyoming state vet reported Wednesday. It’s the first such outbreak since the 1970s. A moose also has been confirmed with anthrax, the first wildlife case since 1956.
Andrew RossiSeptember 04, 2024