DANIEL MARTIN, owner of Lay Valley Bison Ranch, facing charges following investigation into animal neglect

- Colorado, USA -

The Moffat County Sheriff’s Office announced that 83-year-old DANIEL MARTIN is expected to face multiple misdemeanor animal cruelty charges after dozens of head of bison and a mule were removed from his Lay Valley Bison Ranch.

The sheriff’s office said in its press release that over the past month, it has been working with MARTIN “.. in an effort to remediate ongoing concerns regarding the care and condition of the animals.”

According to the sheriff's office, despite those efforts, investigators determined that further action was necessary to protect the welfare of the animals involved.

On Saturday, May 16, 2026, in cooperation with the Colorado Bureau of Animal Protection and the Colorado State Veterinary Office, deputies executed at the ranch a seizure operation which involved approximately 90 head of bison.

Sadly, two bison died during the operation and two other bison and a mule “.. were humanely euthanized to prevent further suffering” according to the sheriff's office.

The remaining animals are being evaluated and cared for in coordination with veterinary professionals and partnering agencies.

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Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the press release by the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.

Photos shared from the Moffat County Sheriff’s Office.

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