Criminal charges against South Dakota ranchers dropped by Trump admininstration
Politically motivated criminal charges have been dropped against a South Dakota ranching family, the Maudes, whose lives were turned upside down after the Biden administration prosecuted them over a 25-acre land dispute last year. The charges were related to the alleged theft of federal property by using federal grasslands for grazing without permission. However, the Department of Agriculture under President Donald Trump’s administration announced the dropping of the charges, bringing relief to the family.
The Maudes, who own the Maude Hog and Cattle ranch, had been facing serious legal repercussions, including the possibility of up to 10 years in prison and millions of dollars in fines. The dispute arose when the Biden administration’s U.S. Forest Service accused them of encroaching on federal grasslands adjacent to their property. Despite holding a USFS National Grasslands grazing allotment in good standing since the inception of the USFS, the family found themselves embroiled in a legal battle over a small patch of land.
In a press conference held by USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins in Washington, D.C., the decision to drop the charges was officially announced. Rollins credited President Trump’s directive to put Americans first for the resolution of the case, ensuring that the Maudes would not be driven from their home, jailed, or fined. The family expressed their gratitude for the support they received from local officials, activists, and neighbors who stood by them during the ordeal.
Heather Maude, speaking on behalf of her husband Charles and their children, highlighted their family’s long history in agriculture and their commitment to fighting for freedom. She thanked the Trump administration and all those who contributed to resolving the situation, emphasizing the importance of American agriculture and the need to protect farmers and ranchers from government overreach.
Attorney General Pam Bondi also weighed in on the case, criticizing the previous administration’s agenda and affirming the Department of Justice’s commitment to prosecuting criminals and ensuring public safety. The message from the Trump administration was clear – to stand up against government persecution and safeguard the American way of life for farmers and ranchers across the country.
As the Maudes and their supporters celebrate the end of a challenging chapter, the resolution of their case serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar legal battles under the Biden administration. The fight for justice and the protection of American livelihoods continues, with a renewed focus on upholding the values of freedom and prosperity for all.
