Author of Matthew Shepard book to speak in Laramie

LARAMIE, Wyo. (AP) — The author of a controversial book about the killing of Matthew Shepard is returning to Wyoming to talk about his investigation.

Journalist Stephen Jimenez is scheduled to speak about “The Book of Matt: Hidden Truths about the Murder of Matthew Shepard” Tuesday evening at the Gryphon Theatre. He researched the book in Laramie. He claims Shepard, a gay University of Wyoming student, and one of his killers were involved in the methamphetamine trade and that drugs, not hate, was the main motive behind the killing.

The Matthew Shepard Foundation says the book is based on “rumors and innuendo.”

The Casper Star-Tribune reports that Jimenez was invited to Laramie by Glenn Johnson, a retired administrator at Laramie Junior High School, who says he worked with students involved in the city’s drug culture during his career.