Case Update:

Daniel Martin has been charged with eighty nine (89) counts of Cruelty to Animals - Neglect / Mistreatment of Bison, Colorado Revised Statute 18-9-202(1)(a), and two (2) counts of Cruelty to Animals - Neglect / Mistreatment of Mules, Colorado Revised Statute 18-9-202(1)(a).  Mr. Martin is presumed innocent of all charges, until proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.       

On May 28th, 2026, the Moffat County Court found that probable cause exists for the seizure of the animals, after testimony from the Moffat County Sheriff's Office, and the Colorado Bureau of Animal Protection.  All animals seized in this case have been released to the impounding agency, after Daniel Martin was unable to pay for cost and care of the animals; a fee that the Moffat County Court found to be reasonable, and fair.      

New photographs have been added to this post.  Some audiences may find some of these images disturbing; viewer discretion is advised.                 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Moffat County Sheriff’s Office Investigates Animal Neglect Case; Approximately 90 Bison Seized

CRAIG, Colo. — Today, the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office, in cooperation with the Colorado Bureau of Animal Protection and the Colorado State Veterinary Office, executed a seizure operation involving approximately 90 head of bison from the Lay Valley Bison Ranch located in Moffat County.  A mule was also seized during the operation.

Over the past month, the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office has been working with the owner, Daniel Martin (Date of birth 07/19/1942) in an effort to remediate ongoing concerns regarding the care and condition of the animals. Despite those efforts, investigators determined that further action was necessary to protect the welfare of the animals involved.

During the investigation, one mule was determined to be suffering to the extent that humane euthanasia was necessary and was carried out by the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office.

As a result of the investigation, Daniel Martin is expected to face multiple misdemeanor charges of cruelty to animals.  These charges are allegations, and Mr. Martin is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

The seized animals are being evaluated and cared for in coordination with veterinary professionals and partnering agencies.  Two bison died during the seizure operation, and two bison were humanely euthanized to prevent further suffering.    

The Moffat County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Colorado Bureau of Animal Protection, and all assisting personnel for their cooperation and assistance during this investigation.

No further information is being released at this time as the investigation remains ongoing.