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
Duane Simpson, CEO of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC), joined us in Monday’s Market Day Report to share his perspective on the USDA’s plan and potential impact on producers.
U.S. Farmers Navigate Harvest Pace, Costs, Policy Shifts
While treatable with a vaccine, anthrax is a dangerous threat to cattle herd health if not identified and treated immediately.
Smaller flocks and lower lay rates are pressuring table egg supplies, even as hatchery activity edges higher.
Smaller slaughter numbers across beef and pork signal tighter supplies into late 2025, while record-low veal production highlights ongoing structural changes in the sector.