Vaughn, Montana – An 80-year-old rancher, Arthur “Jack” Schubarth, faces federal charges for creating hybrid sheep using illegally imported genetic material. This material was harvested from the Marco Polo argali sheep, one of the largest sheep species globally, prized by trophy hunters for its distinctive spiraling horns and heavy weight exceeding 300 pounds.
Schubarth’s moneymaking scheme involved cloning embryos of the Marco Polo argali to produce a male specimen, subsequently breeding it with other species to create hybrid sheep for sale to hunting preserves in the United States. The prosecutors allege that Schubarth sold these hybrid sheep at high prices to individuals in Texas and Minnesota.
The rancher pleaded guilty to two felony wildlife charges, with potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $500,000. Schubarth’s illicit activities spanned eight years, starting in 2013 when he initiated efforts to clone the Marco Polo argali. Collaborating with unidentified individuals, he successfully bred the male specimen, named Montana Mountain King, which became central to his breeding operation.
By introducing new genetic material into the sheep population, Schubarth’s scheme not only violated state and federal animal protection laws but also posed a potential threat to the native sheep populations. The unauthorized breeding and interstate transport of sheep represented a breach of regulations governing animal import and game animals.
The prosecution documents revealed a complex network of accomplices assisting Schubarth in the illegal breeding and transportation of sheep. Allegations include false declarations to obtain necessary permits for moving the animals across state lines, as well as the sale of semen straws from Montana Mountain King to parties in Texas and Minnesota.
Authorities expressed concern over the impact of such crimes on the integrity of wildlife species in Montana. Ron Howell, chief of enforcement for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, highlighted the severity of the offense in jeopardizing the state’s natural ecosystem. Schubarth is awaiting sentencing on July 11, marking the culmination of a lengthy legal battle surrounding his illicit sheep breeding operation.