Hammond update
Editor's Note: We have compiled a list of all the articles we have published, as well as a timeline of the events, surrounding the Bundy Standoff and other incidents relating to government control of public lands such as the Hammond Fire Trial and the occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Click here to read more.
Monday, January 4, Dwight and Steven Hammond left their homes in eastern Oregon, peacefully reporting to federal prison to serve the remaining time of their prison sentences (see Where there’s smoke from Oct. 31, 2015). The Hammonds’ case has garnered national attention.
A march in Burns, Oregon, Saturday showed local and outside support for the Hammond family. Some marchers tossed pennies on the steps of the local courthouse to represent “buying back” the government. The march was peaceful and Dwight Hammond thanked friends and neighbors for their support.
After the march, a militia group, made up of mostly non-local protesters, occupied the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge in a remote area near Burns and plans to stay there “as long as it takes,” according to Ammon Bundy, who appears to be a leader. “We have no intentions of using force upon anyone, (but) if force is used against us, we would defend ourselves.”
Given the unpredictability of the situation, Harney County School District 3 has called off classes for the entire week, superintendent Dr. Marilyn L. McBride said. “Ensuring staff and student safety is our greatest concern.”
Tri-State Livestock News continues to follow this unfolding story and will share an in-depth article with exclusive local sources.
An attorney who specializes in the constitution says, in this video that this story goes beyond the Hammonds and the Bundys. She says the constitution does not allow federal land ownership other than in very small amounts.
–staff report
