Prosecutor asks judge to remove Wyoming outfitter’s animals

A Teton County prosecutor is asking a judge to take away all animals belonging to a Wyoming outfitter and hunting guide until an animal cruelty case against him is resolved.

Forest Stearns was cited for animal cruelty Aug. 25 by the Teton County Sheriff’s Office after a person accused him of tying down a horse for at least three hours before the animal died.
He pleaded not guilty to the charge.

The Jackson Hole News and Guide reports Deputy Prosecutor Becket Hinckley filed a motion Thursday asking the judge to order that Forest Stearns does not have possession, custody or control of any animals while the case is pending. It is unclear how many animals Stearns owns.

A trial will likely be scheduled four months from now.