Authorities have apprehended an armed fugitive associated with occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge earlier this year, the Oregonian reports.
Jake Edward Ryan, 27, of Montana, was found sleeping in a stranger's shed, armed with a loaded .45-caliber handgun and several knives after the property owner called 911 on Tuesday, the paper reports. Ryan appeared in federal court on Wednesday, indicted on charges that include conspiracy to impeded officers through intimidation, threats or force, possessing a firearm in a federal facility and degradation of government property.
Ryan is accused of helping occupier Sean Anderson dig a trench on an archaeological site held sacred to the native Burns Paiute tribe. He pleaded not guilty to all counts.
Last month, Ryan's supporters in Montana threatened another armed stand-off if Ryan were arrested and brought up on federal charges.
He's the 26th person to face charges related to the stand-off at the Oregon wildlife refuge, following a 41-day armed take-over of the property.
Ryan is back in court Thursday, where federal prosecutors will argue that he be detained until his trial, calling him a flight risk and potential danger to the public.
