Skoric fights transfer of wolf-trespass trial
The removal of the case against a federal wolf agent to U.S. District Court in Cheyenne will be challenged by Park County.
“The alleged incident occurred in Park County, and a Park County jury should hear the case,” Park County Attorney Bryan Skoric said Monday.
Mike Jimenez of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, charged with criminal trespass and littering, was due to appear Tuesday in Circuit Court. However, U.S. District Judge Alan Johnson ordered the site changed based on a law that says cases involving federal agents may be moved.
“We will challenge the removal,” Skoric said, adding that case law supports his argument that the case should be tried in a local court, not a federal venue.
The allegations against Jimenez involve entry onto a Meeteetse ranch without permission with four collared, tranquilized wolves. Also named in the suit was Wes Livingston of Cody, whose lawyer also has asked for removal, Skoric said.