Federal law enforcement rangers are continuing the investigation in the Lake Pleasant area, just north of Morgan City Wash, where the carcasses were found.  The crime was initially reported by off-highway vehicle riders who informed federal officials over the weekend. “We are investigating this crime, and we want anyone with information to call us,” says Supervisory Ranger Patrick Brasington of the Phoenix District Bureau of Land Management. People who have any information may call:  1-800-637-9152. All calls are confidential and a reward of up to $5,000 is offered for information leading to a conviction.  The crime is punishable by substantial fines and/or imprisonment.

The incident occurred within the last week on public lands north of the metro area where the BLM manages a wild burro herd consisting of 280 animals that have migrated to the area. Wild burros and horses on public lands are protected by law under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971.

The BLM manages more land – 256 million acres – than any other Federal agency.  This land, known as the National System of Public Lands, is primarily located in 12 Western States, including Alaska.  The Bureau, with a budget of about $1 billion, also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation.  The BLM’s multiple-use mission is to sustain the health and productivity of the public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.  The Bureau accomplishes this by managing such activities as outdoor recreation, livestock grazing, mineral development, and energy production, and by conserving natural, historical, cultural, and other resources on public lands.