WARD COUNTY, N.D. – State prosecutors have expanded the legal action surrounding the dead‑cattle feedlot near Surrey by filing nine new cases this week. Each case targets a separate entity that had a stake in the feedlot and carries 479 infractions – one for every animal discovered dead on the property.
Background of the investigation
In March, Your News Leader reported that the Ward County Sheriff’s Office opened an investigation after residents raised concerns about a large number of dead cattle at the feedlot. Sheriff’s deputies removed the carcasses and turned the matter over to state authorities. The state subsequently charged Nathan Smith, the feedlot’s operator, with 479 infractions for improper disposal of animal carcasses, one count per animal.
During the investigation, Smith told investigators he believed his disposal practices complied with North Dakota law. The original case was scheduled for a status conference on Tuesday, but the hearing was continued and a new date has not yet been set.
New entities now facing charges
Between Friday and Tuesday, prosecutors filed nine additional cases, each naming a different company, partnership, or land‑holding entity connected to the feedlot. The parties charged include:
- Ansuz, LLC, doing business as JERA (Matthew Tharaldson)
- JERA Land and the Cattle General Partnership (JERA)
- Berkana, LLC, doing business as JERA (Nathan Smith)
- Gebo, LLC, doing business as JERA (Darek Keller)
- Perthro, LLC, doing business as JERA (Andrew Smith)
- North Central Consolidated Farms, LLC, doing business as JERA (Nathan Smith)
- Tiwaz, LLC, doing business as JERA (Jacob Smith)
- JAD Land and Cattle, LLC
- Smith Family Land Co II, LLC
Each of these entities now faces the same 479 infractions that were originally levied against Smith. The infractions represent the lowest level of criminal offense in North Dakota and do not carry jail time; however, convictions can result in fines of up to $1,000 per count.
Potential impact and next steps
While the new filings increase the number of parties held accountable, it remains unclear whether additional charges will be pursued beyond the nine entities named. The prosecutor’s office has not indicated a timeline for further action, and the original case against Smith remains pending a rescheduled hearing.
Local residents and industry observers are watching the proceedings closely. The feedlot’s operations affect a significant portion of the agricultural economy in Ward County, and the outcome may set a precedent for how animal‑carcass disposal is regulated statewide.
Legal context
North Dakota law classifies improper disposal of animal carcasses as a misdemeanor infraction. While the penalties are modest compared to felony charges, the cumulative fines for 479 counts could be substantial. Prosecutors have emphasized that the goal is to ensure compliance with environmental and public‑health standards, rather than to impose punitive measures.
The Ward County Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor the site and will cooperate with state investigators as the case moves forward. Community members are encouraged to report any further concerns related to animal welfare or environmental compliance.
Original reporting: KFYR-TV Bismarck (news) — read the source article.
