Animals of Montana is facing a proposed fine of $7,000 for that safety violation and a $2,000 penalty for failing to report the work-related death to federal authorities.
Chuck Watson, attorney for Animals of Montana's owner and principal trainer, Troy Hyde, told Reuters in an interview in November that the bears were not considered a risk as they were routinely exposed to people. The facility was given a permit in 2005 for the bears, which were purchased from an out-of-state vendor.
Hyde could not be reached for comment on Tuesday. The company has 15 days to pay or contest the violations or ask for an informal conference with federal officials to discuss the issue.
Watson said on Tuesday that he is convinced "Troy is not aware he was violating any law or regulation if indeed he did that."
Another trainer with Animals of Montana killed the more aggressive of the two grizzlies shortly after the fatal mauling.
(Reporting by Laura Zuckerman in Salmon, Idaho; Editing by Dan Whitcomb and Eric Beech)
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