Montana Rancher Sentenced to 6 Months in Prison for Cloning Rare Sheep Species

A shocking case of wildlife trafficking and illegal cloning has come to light in Montana, where an 81-year-old rancher, Arthur “Jack” Schubarth, has been sentenced to six months in federal prison for his involvement in creating a hybrid species of sheep for captive hunting.

The rancher, along with at least five other individuals, conspired to clone the Marco Polo sheep from Kyrgyzstan and sell its offspring to shooting preserves, in a bid to profit from the sale of these rare animals.

Mr. Schubarth's crimes were discovered and brought to justice after a thorough investigation by the Justice Department. He was found guilty of committing two felonies - conspiracy to violate the Lacey Act and substantively violating the Lacey Act. The Lacey Act is a federal law that prohibits the trafficking of wildlife, fish, and plants that have been illegally obtained. As a result of his actions, Schubarth has been sentenced to six months in federal prison, followed by a three-year supervised release. Additionally, he has been fined $20,000 and ordered to pay a $4,000 community service payment.

The Marco Polo argali sheep, a near-threatened species from Asia, was illegally brought to the United States by Schubarth. These majestic creatures, known for their large size and distinctive horns, were cloned to create a "larger hybrid species of sheep" that would fetch higher prices in the captive hunting industry. According to court records, Schubarth not only cloned and sold the Marco Polo sheep but also engaged in the trafficking of other hoofed animals to shooting preserves from 2013 to 2021.

The implications of Schubarth's actions extend far beyond the realm of financial gain. By illegally introducing these hybrid species of sheep into the wild, he endangered the genetic integrity of native wildlife populations and risked spreading diseases among indigenous species. The Marco Polo argali sheep, which are protected under international agreements and domestic laws, are vital to the ecosystem and must be safeguarded from illegal exploitation.

The case of Arthur “Jack” Schubarth serves as a stark reminder of the threats posed by wildlife trafficking and illegal cloning activities. The manipulation of genetic material for profit not only undermines conservation efforts but also jeopardizes the future of endangered species. The successful prosecution of individuals involved in such criminal activities is essential to deter others from engaging in similar practices and to protect the biodiversity of our planet.

In conclusion, the sentencing of Arthur “Jack” Schubarth for his involvement in illegal cloning and trafficking of endangered species sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated. It is crucial for law enforcement agencies, conservation organizations, and the public to remain vigilant in their efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and preserve the natural world for future generations.