Wyoming News Briefs

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Both sides of the debate over whether hydraulic fracturing has contaminated groundwater in Wyoming say they need more time to analyze the results of testing done by the U.S. Geological Survey. The USGS tested one of two wells dug by the EPA, and found low levels of the carcinogen benzene. It didn't test a second well in which the EPA said benzene was found at 50 times the recommended limit, saying it couldn't get enough water for a reliable sample.

GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP) — An infectious disease specialist at Campbell County Memorial Hospital says one of two people being treated for "flesh-eating bacteria" has died. Chris Brown says the person had close contact with the other patient before they got to the hospital. Brown says a third patient had a serious Strep infection but, contrary to previous reports, did not have flesh-eating bacteria.

RIVERTON, Wyo. (AP) — Fremont County sheriff's Capt. Ryan Lee is encouraging residents to report anything suspicious after dozens of horse tail thefts in and around the county. Authorities say a criminal enterprise might be behind the theft of the hair, which can be used in violin bows, pottery, brushes and crafts.

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) — A man who has pleaded guilty to threatening employees at a Verizon store over a payment dispute is expected to avoid a prison sentence. The Casper Star-Tribune reports Robbey Swank entered the plea this week as part of a deal that allows the court to dole out punishment short of prison time.