A feedlot owner near Surrey, ND, has filed a civil lawsuit against Ward County following an investigation into hundreds of dead cattle, according to local news outlet KMOT.
Authorities began investigating the operation run by Nathan Smith after a former employee raised concerns about the disposal of carcasses. Deputies later removed 479 carcasses, and prosecutors cited Smith for each count of improper disposal.
KMOT reported that in Smith’s complaint he argues the county violated his Fifth Amendment due process rights by not allowing him to address the issue before removal. He also disputes a $15,700 disposal bill approved by county officials. Smith is seeking to pause payment requirements while the case proceeds.
Separately, felony witness tampering charges have been filed against Nathan and Hannah Smith.
