UPDATE: The Maude family of South Dakota is speaking out about their ongoing struggle against federal charges stemming from a disputed land issue. This urgent development comes after federal criminal charges of theft of government property against Charles and Heather Maude were dropped earlier this year, but the legal battle is far from over.
On April 29, 2025, the Maudes addressed a packed audience of agriculture producers in Dickinson, South Dakota, detailing their harrowing experience that began on March 29, 2024. On that day, two Forest Service agents arrived unexpectedly at their ranch, aiming to discuss a berm built by Charles’ great-grandfather in 1910, now part of Forest Service land.
During their initial conversation, the couple learned that one federal agent had allegedly trespassed on their property to access the disputed land. Despite holding a valid grazing allotment, the Maudes faced escalating tensions, culminating in a shocking indictment hearing scheduled for July 8, 2025. Each faced up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000.
“There was no intent for us on our part to commit any crime,” Heather stated, emphasizing their ownership based on historical documents. Following the indictment, the couple dedicated months to understanding their rights while managing their ranch.
The situation took a turn during a press conference with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, who formally recognized the dropping of the charges. However, Heather insists, “Most people thought our life went back to normal, and it didn’t.” The couple still lacks clarity on the boundary dispute that initiated the legal turmoil.
Days before their Dickinson event, the Maudes received a purchase agreement from Tom Schultz, the current chief of the Forest Service. This agreement offers them the opportunity to buy the disputed land under the Small Tracts Act. Heather expressed cautious optimism about this potential resolution, stating, “We have a few people reviewing [the purchase agreement]. Then we’re going to sign. And that ends the issue with the boundary dispute.”
Despite this progress, the Maudes have not yet taken formal action regarding the federal charges against them. Heather urged the audience to stay informed as they navigate this complex legal landscape. “The last piece is ‘how do we respond to the criminal felony charges they brought against us?’” she explained.
The Maudes are exploring their options but hope to avoid a lawsuit against the government. “We would rather not,” Heather remarked, hinting at a “gentleman’s agreement” discussed with Chief Schultz, the details of which remain undisclosed.
As the Maude family continues to manage their ranch and face these legal challenges, the agricultural community watches closely. The situation underscores the broader implications of land use disputes and federal oversight in rural America.
For ongoing updates on the Maude family’s situation, follow coverage from The Dickinson Press and their ranch’s social media channels. More information about the North Dakota Farm Bureau, which hosted the Maudes’ presentation, can be found at www.ndfb.org.
