At 1-800-LAW-FIRM, we’re dedicated to holding corporations accountable for prioritizing profits over people’s safety. But today, we’re here to shed light on a different kind of harm.
Illuminating an Atrocity
As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” Sadly, in the remote wilderness near Daniel, Wyoming, a chilling incident unfolded on February 29, 2024, when a young female wolf, unaware of her fate, crossed paths with Cody Roberts, a local resident and hunter. Over several hours Roberts engaged in a series of horrifying acts that left her badly injured, defenseless, and ultimately took her life.
Despite the shocking nature of the incident, the penalty imposed on Roberts by the Wyoming Game and Fish was a mere $250 fine. This injustice has sparked outrage globally.
Legalized Cruelty
Protests have erupted worldwide, shining a spotlight on Wyoming’s wildlife laws. Despite overwhelming evidence, Roberts’ actions were largely deemed legal under Wyoming law, highlighting a significant gap in accountability.
In Wyoming’s “predator zone,” wolves can be killed without restraint, using barbaric methods that defy basic decency. Similar laws exist in Montana and Idaho, perpetuating a culture of violence towards wildlife.
This disturbing incident also revealed a small pocket of individuals who glorify violence towards wildlife. The evidence is revealed in the support Roberts received on social media, posts that promote cruelty towards animals. Meanwhile, animal advocates have exposed a related issue. Violence towards animals correlates to violence towards people.
Taking Action
In response to this heinous wolf incident and fueled by public outrage, environmental and animal advocacy groups have quickly mobilized to change laws and hold authorities accountable. They are working to restore federal protections for wolves in the Northern Rockies. In early April, ten conservation groups challenged the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over its failure to list wolves in the Northern Rockies under the Endangered Species Act.
Additionally, animal welfare organizations sent a letter urging Sublette County’s attorney and sheriff to prosecute Cody Roberts by charging him with a felony under Wyoming’s anti-cruelty law.
These groups are speaking up and speaking out to confront attitudes and policies that perpetuate cruelty towards wildlife. You can too!
- Reach out to the Wyoming Office of Tourism and demand changes to laws that promote cruelty towards wolves.
- Support organizations dedicated to wildlife protection.
We must work together to foster a culture of compassion and respect for all living beings.