Hawn-Downare civil case dismissed

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12/26/2008 1:48:00 PM

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Jeff Hawn

Hawn-Downare civil case dismissed

Mike Potter
Staff Writer

A lawsuit filed by Texas businessman Jeff Hawn alleging that bison owned by Hartsel rancher Monte Downare destroyed his property was dismissed on Dec. 17 after Hawn paid his court-ordered restitution.

The restitution was part of a plea deal in a criminal case against Hawn for his role in the slaughter of 32 of Downare's bison. Hawn arranged for hunters who ended up killing the bison. Hawn agreed to plead guilty to one count of felony criminal mischief and one count of cruelty to animals. In return, the remaining counts of cruelty to animals were dropped.

As part of the plea bargain, Hawn was required to pay roughly $83,000 in restitution.

Before the bison were killed, Hawn filed a civil case against Downare, alleging that bison had tramped through a fence and destroyed much of his property, including trees and a satellite dish. Downare filed a countersuit, alleging that Hawn conspired to kill his animals. Downare sought unspecified damages, according to court documents.

The civil case was put on hold during the criminal case, in which Hawn will be sentenced on Jan. 28.

Hawn's attorney, Denver-based Pamela Mackey, asked that sentencing be postponed so Hawn could pay restitution, complete the community service ordered, and finish other requirements outlined in the plea deal before sentencing.

Hawn could not be reached for comment.

In addition to the $83,362.28 restitution to the Downare family, Hawn will also be required to pay a $4,000 fine to the Park County Sheriff's Office and Animal Control.

As part of the plea bargain, he was to make $70,000 in donations to a number of organizations that deal with animals: Pine Junction-based Intermountain Humane Society, Pueblo-based DreamCatchers Equine Rescue, Park County Cattlemen's Association Scholarship Fund, Park County 4-H Foundation, the Good Samaritan Fund, and Denver-based Colorado Unwanted Horse Alliance.

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