WASHINGTON, May 12, 2008 - On April 18, 2008, the Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a decision without hearing by reason of consent with W.L. Sawyer (Sawyer), doing business as Sawyer Livestock Co., Somerset, Kentucky.

Sawyer has been ordered to cease and desist from failing to pay sellers for livestock purchases within the time period required by the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act.

Sawyer has also been assessed a civil penalty in the amount of $5,500, of which $2,000 will be held in abeyance provided Sawyer complies with the understanding with respect to the civil penalty for one year.

The consent decision resolves charges that were filed on August 16, 2007, in which GIPSA alleged that Sawyer purchased livestock and failed to pay for livestock purchases within the time period required by the P&S Act.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries.

Catherine M. Grasso 202-720-7201