Hefty Bond Set for Man Charged in Cheyenne Walmart Theft Spree

A 35-year-old Douglas man is facing up to 30 years in prison after allegedly stealing from Walmart in Cheyenne not once, not twice, but thrice.

3 Felony Warrants

According to a booking sheet, on Wednesday, Feb. 18, Erich Wayne Butler was transported to the Laramie County Detention Center on three felony warrants out of Laramie County Circuit Court.

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The first warrant was for felony theft and was signed by Judge Sean C. Chambers on Wednesday, Jan. 21.

It's alleged that on or between the period of Aug. 22, 2025, to Jan. 2, 2026, Butler stole more than $1,000 worth of merchandise from Walmart.

The other two warrants were for theft - fifth or subsequent offense and were signed by Judge TJ Forwood on Tuesday, Jan. 27.

It's alleged that Butler stole less than $1,000 worth of merchandise from Walmart on or about Dec. 26, 2025, and committed the same crime on or about Friday, Jan. 2, however, due to previous convictions, the crimes were enhanced as felonies.

All three crimes are punishable by up to 10 years in prison, up to a $10,000 fine, or both.

Initial Court Appearance

On Thursday, Feb. 19, Butler was seen in Circuit Court in front of Forwood on the charges.

Forwood appointed Butler a public defender then asked the state for their recommendation on bond.

"He is actually on bond for charges out of Natrona County at this time right here. He also stated in jail calls that he intends, once he bonds out, to flee the jurisdiction to Georgia," the state said. "In light of these factors, the number of charges pending against the defendant, the state would recommend a $15,000 cash bond."

"One, I don't know anybody in Georgia, so that's not right," Butler told Forwood.

"I own my own house in Douglas. I'm a sole provider and have sole custody of my 7-year-old daughter. I have a ... fiancée right now that's at home. We have ties to the community. I've been in Douglas for three years. I've been in Wyoming for six. If we could lower it or get it to cash or surety. I live right here in Douglas. I've had the same job for a year and a half now," Butler added.

Bond Set at $15,000 Cash

"I understand your arguments, those are things that I do look at, however, looking at the conduct here, the amount of thefts, the frequency, especially considering the fact that you do live in Douglas, I think $15,000 cash bond is appropriate," Forwood told Butler. "If you're able to post bond, the court will set conditions at that time."

Butler's next court date will be a preliminary hearing on Thursday, Feb. 26, at 3 p.m.

Please remember that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.