Because a court of law found them guilty of arson on federal lands. They, by definition, weren't controlled burns. It's not a question of management here, it's a question of a local farmer slaughtering deer on federal lands, then setting a fire to cover it up that burned 100+ acres.Why should we side with the feds in this matter? Why do we assume that the feds know better than locals how to manage local land? Why is it justified that they are putting two men away for five years for carrying out controlled burns?
The judge erroneously sentenced them to 90 days, ignoring federal minimums. The case was legally appealed, and higher courts found the sentencing constitutional, so the local judge enacted it. Both Hammonds intend to turn themselves in on Monday.