The Moffat County Sheriff’s Office, working alongside the Colorado Bureau of Animal Protection and the Colorado State Veterinary Office, seized approximately 90 bison from the Lay Valley Bison Ranch in Moffat County this past week. A mule was also taken during the operation.
Authorities had spent the past month working with the ranch’s owner, Daniel Martin, 82, to address ongoing concerns about the care and condition of the animals. Investigators ultimately determined that those efforts were insufficient to protect the animals’ welfare, prompting the seizure.
During the investigation, one mule was found to be suffering severely enough that humane euthanasia was deemed necessary and was carried out by the Sheriff’s Office. Two bison died during the seizure operation itself, and two additional bison were humanely euthanized to prevent further suffering.
Martin is expected to face multiple misdemeanor charges of cruelty to animals. Those charges are allegations, and Martin is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
The seized animals are currently being evaluated and cared for with the assistance of veterinary professionals and partnering agencies.
The Moffat County Sheriff’s Office acknowledged the contributions of the Colorado Bureau of Animal Protection, the Colorado State Veterinary Office, and all assisting personnel involved in the investigation. Officials say no further information will be released while the investigation remains ongoing.
