Hard-Fought Win: SD ranching family has federal criminal charges from the previous administration dropped

“It was a huge win not only for us but for the agriculture community as a whole.”

Agriculture received a win this week as the government dropped all federal charges against South Dakota ranchers Charles and Heather Maude. The previous administration had lodged federal theft charges against them, claiming they stole federal land for personal use.

The Maudes spoke with RFD-TV’s Suzanne Alexander about their operation, their legal battle, and how their outcome can benefit American ag and ranching.

Related Stories
Producers say more reliable water deliveries would help make irrigation planning more predictable.
The initiative could create more opportunities for farmers and ranchers to sell food within their communities.
Eligible LLCs and S corporations can now access separate USDA payment limits for each qualifying member beginning with the 2026 program year.
Expanding cow numbers drove most of the production growth in July, with the national dairy herd up nearly 200,000 head from last year.
July placements fell to their lowest level on record even as total feedlot inventories remained above last year.
Geoff Cooper says the EPA action could provide more options for refiners and blenders.