That's what I mean. That is an assumption not supported by anything in the article which brings up several questions.
Was there any contact with the Brossart's before arresting them for not reporting the strays? (nothing in the article) Is there a reasonable expectation that they would notice six cows on 3,000 acres? (nothing in the article) Is it usual to make an arrest for non-reportage of trespassing livestock? (nothing in the article) Has there ever been a previous incident wherein the Brossarts didn't report strays on their property and tried to keep them as their own? (nothing in the article)
Everything you said is all well and good but based on the article all of those questions are relevant and unanswered. I was born and raised in Colorado so trying to edumacate me on the etiquette and realities of ranch country isn't necessary.
Perhaps you shouldn’t trust the reportage of a British tabloid to be the last word on what is happening in in NoDak.
Some simple googling will turn up local news reports.
http://www.wdaz.com/event/article/id/10488/
The real question is why the media left out all those important aspects. Perhaps they have an agenda of their own?