PINEDALE — Despite operating a tip line seeking valuable information to aid in the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office’s ongoing investigation into Cody Roberts’ alleged treatment of a wild wolf pup, “Regrettably, no actionable tips pertinent to ongoing investigations” were received over the past two weeks. That’s according to an April 23 press release issued by the SCSO.
The release goes on to encourage witnesses or others who may have credible information related to the alleged capture, torture, torment and killing of a wild gray wolf pup by Roberts “to come forward with information” and contact the tip line by calling 307-212-5108. 

New tip line hours

Effective April 24, the tip-line is staffed Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mountain Standard Time. The SCSO urges people “to utilize this resource to prove any credible information from witnesses that may assist ongoing investigations.” For those who prefer electronic communication, emails to the SCSO can be sent to sheriffinfo@sublettecountywy.gov.

Rewards for credible evidence

Multiple organizations, including Animal Wellness Action, Center for a Humane Economy and Wolves of the Rockies have set up reward funds, totaling more than $20,000 in cash for any individual who provides additional evidence to police and prosecutors about Roberts resulting in his being sentenced to prison for animal cruelty. The organizations plan to share any substantial evidence they receive with the Sublette County Sheriff’s Office.

Investigation updates

The investigation into the Feb. 29 incident which occurred in and around Daniel and the Green River Bar began on April 10 and continues with no charges filed against Roberts as of press time. Sublette County Attorney Clayton Melinkovich said in his latest prepared statement, “While it is possible that some or all of these allegations could ultimately be verified through a lawful investigation, a news report or a picture found online cannot be used as the basis for any criminal charge unless and until it has been vetted and supported by foundational information required by the Wyoming Rules of Evidence.”

Investigation ongoing

Melinkovich said he “cannot and will not prosecute any individual for which sufficient evidence does not exist.” Melinkovich noted, “While I understand requests and demands for quick action, speed and quality rarely mix. … an investigation is underway and your patience is appreciated while this process takes its course.”
People locally and around the globe are questioning whether Roberts should be charged with other crimes for discharging a firearm within municipal limits in an area where residences and businesses are present, discharging a firearm while under the influence of alcohol, allowing his minor child to accompany him into a bar and bringing a wild animal into a food and beverage establishment. 

Petitions not considered

Melinkovich also reminded the public about the oath of office he swore to uphold, “I simply cannot charge a person with a crime because a lot of people have asked me to do so.” He emphasized: “The ever-increasing number of signatures on the change.org petition and emails and telephone calls to my office will not be considered in any charging decision as doing so would violate my oath and Mr. Roberts’ due process rights.” 

As of the posting of this article, the change.org petition to “Demand Felony Charges Against Cody Roberts for Animal Cruelty” had garnered 186,398 signatures since it was launched on April 6.