Target: Clayton Melinkovich, Sublette County, WY Prosecutor
Goal: Demand appropriate punishment for man accused of killing and sadistically displaying injured wolf.
The shocking case of a Wyoming man who allegedly inflicted severe cruelty on a wolf exemplifies the urgent need for stricter enforcement of animal protection laws. Cody Roberts is accused of hitting a wolf with a snowmobile, taping its mouth shut, and displaying it in a rural bar before ultimately killing it. Heart-wrenching images circulated online, seemingly showing the injured wolf barely moving and suffering while bound.
Further details surrounding this case reveal a troubling pattern of leniency towards wildlife violations in Wyoming. Initially fined only $250 for illegal possession of wildlife, Roberts faced escalating consequences after a grand jury indicted him on felony animal cruelty charges. Yest, according to a proposed plea deal, he could evade significant prison time by agreeing to pay a mere $1,000 fine and serve 18 months of probation.
Demands for justice in this case are essential to protect not only wolves but other wildlife vulnerable to human cruelty. The petition demands that the Sublette County Prosecutor reevaluate Roberts’ plea agreement to ensure that the punishment fits the alleged crime and serves as a deterrent to others who might consider similar actions in the future.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Prosecutor Melinkovich,
The alleged actions of Cody Roberts raise grave concerns about the treatment and protection of wildlife in Wyoming. Reports describe how he used a snowmobile to strike a wolf before taping its mouth shut and showcasing it at a local bar, culminating in the animal’s death. The images and videos of the suffering wolf shocked many and drew widespread condemnation, bringing to light the failure of current laws to protect our wildlife adequately.
Roberts’ previous lenient penalties and the proposed plea deal with only a $1,000 fine and probation are deeply disheartening and do not reflect the severity of the alleged animal cruelty. This situation not only shows a lack of regard for the safety and well-being of vulnerable wildlife but also sends a message that such actions might lead to insignificant consequences. As wildlife remains at risk due to inadequate protections in many parts of Wyoming, it is crucial to take a stand for justice.
We, the undersigned, urge your office to reconsider the plea agreement and ensure that the punishment for Cody Roberts truly serves justice for the tragic death of the wolf and to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Stricter measures must be taken to safeguard the rights of animals and hold violators accountable for their actions.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Pixabay
