Montana Rancher Sentenced for Creating Hybrid Sheep Using Cloned Endangered Species

Arthur 'Jack' Schubarth received a six-month prison term for illegally breeding giant sheep hybrids for trophy hunting by using protected Marco Polo argali sheep genetics.

• Schubarth, 81, cloned Marco Polo argali sheep to produce a hybrid species for captive hunting, violating the Lacey Act.
• The rancher imported tissue from the endangered sheep and created cloned embryos, resulting in the birth of a purebred male named Montana Mountain King.
• Schubarth's actions endangered native wildlife and introduced diseases, prompting a $20,000 fine and $4,000 payment to wildlife foundations.
• The operation involved multiple states and resulted in sales of hybrid sheep and semen, valued between $250,000 and $550,000.
• The case highlights the risks of wildlife trafficking and genetic manipulation, with ongoing investigations into Schubarth's co-conspirators.

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