According to an article via Cowboy State Daily, a South Dakota ranching couple is in the middle of a heated dispute with the feds after being hit with federal indictments by a U.S. Forest Service agent who unexpectedly showed up at their doorstep in tactical gear. Charles and Heather Maude, ranchers from Caputa, South Dakota, are facing charges for allegedly putting up a fence that crosses into federal grasslands—a boundary that’s been contested for years.

Charles describes the ordeal as incredibly stressful, both financially and mentally, saying it’s something no one should have to experience. The charges they face could result in up to 10 years in prison or a $250,000 fine. The incident has sparked outrage across the nation, with many in the agricultural community questioning the aggressive approach taken by the Forest Service.

The Maudes’ land has been in the family since the 1910s, and they also lease adjoining national grasslands. The boundary in question is along a 75-year-old fence line, and what started as a dispute over a “no hunting” sign quickly escalated. After a meeting to discuss a land survey, the couple was blindsided when the indictments were served just 87 days later, leaving the agricultural community baffled and angry at the rapid escalation.

The Maudes are now fighting these charges, with a GoFundMe campaign set up to help with their legal fees. While they can’t discuss the case openly due to ongoing legal proceedings, their story has caught the attention of many who are concerned about the heavy-handed tactics being used.

(Feature photo credit: Rachel Gabel, The Fence Post)