The Interior Department's Inspector General released a report on Tuesday that characterizes former Interior solicitor Bill Myers as a victim in a controversial ranching dispute.

Myers' office oversaw negotiations between the Bureau of Land Management and a Wyoming rancher accused of violating federal laws. The deal was primarily handled by Robert Comer, an associate solicitor.

According to the report, Comer mischaracterized what he was doing in discussions with Myers. Comer concocted an "absolute falsehood" about the U.S. Attorney's position on the matter, the report said.

Myers has been criticized for his ties to the ranching and grazing industry. He has been re-nominated for a spot on the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals.

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Report blasts BLM deal with Thermop rancher (The Billings Gazette 2/23)

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