Wyoming Man Avoids Jail Time for Killing Wolf with Snowmobile

Cody Roberts sentenced to 18 months probation, $1,000 fine for incident that sparked outrage over state's wildlife laws.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:50am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged wolf collar or tracking device, the metal and plastic components starkly illuminated against a pitch-black background, conceptually representing the violent incident that sparked public outrage.The brutal treatment of a protected wolf species sparks renewed debate over Wyoming's wildlife laws and enforcement.Pinedale Today

A Wyoming man named Cody Roberts was sentenced to 18 months of probation and a $1,000 fine for hitting a wolf with his snowmobile, taping the animal's mouth shut, and then killing it in a local bar. Roberts initially faced up to two years in prison and a $5,000 fine, but reached a plea deal with prosecutors.

Why it matters

The incident sparked widespread condemnation and scrutiny of Wyoming's laws that allow people to kill wolves and other predators by a variety of means across most of the state. The case highlighted the ongoing tensions between wildlife conservation efforts and the state's permissive policies around killing certain animals.

The details

In February 2024, Cody Roberts, a 44-year-old man from the town of Daniel, hit a wolf with his snowmobile, taped the animal's mouth shut, brought it into a local bar, and then killed it. Roberts initially pleaded not guilty but later reached a plea deal with prosecutors, pleading guilty to the charges.

  • The incident occurred in February 2024 in the town of Daniel, Wyoming.
  • Roberts was indicted on animal cruelty charges by a Wyoming grand jury last year.
  • Roberts was sentenced on Wednesday, April 9, 2026.

The players

Cody Roberts

A 44-year-old man from the town of Daniel, Wyoming who hit a wolf with his snowmobile, taped the animal's mouth shut, brought it into a local bar, and then killed it.

Judge Richard Lavery

The district judge in Pinedale, Wyoming who sentenced Cody Roberts to 18 months of probation, a $1,000 fine, and restrictions on alcohol, bars, and hunting/fishing.

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What they’re saying

“I regretted what I did and apologized to my family and community.”

— Cody Roberts

What’s next

The judge's sentence and terms of probation for Cody Roberts will be closely monitored to ensure he complies with the restrictions on alcohol, bars, and hunting/fishing during his 18-month probation period.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions in Wyoming between wildlife conservation efforts and the state's permissive laws around killing predators like wolves. While Roberts avoided jail time through a plea deal, the public outcry over his actions may lead to renewed calls for reforms to the state's wildlife policies.