From the report the honest BLM agent wrote about the Bundy case:

The investigation also indicated that on multiple occasions, former BLM Special Agent-in-Charge (SAC) Love specifically and purposely ignored U.S. Attorney’s Office and BLM civilian management direction and intent as well as Nevada State Official recommendations in order to command the most intrusive, oppressive, large scale, and militaristic trespass cattle impound possible. Additionally, this investigation also indicated excessive use of force, civil rights and policy violations. The investigation indicated that there was little doubt there was an improper cover-up in virtually every matter that a particular BLM SAC participated in, or oversaw and that the BLM SAC was immune from discipline and the consequences of his actions.
...
All in all, it is my assessment, and the investigation showed that the 2014 Gold Butte Trespass Cattle Impound was in part a punitive and ego-driven expedition by Senior BLM Law Enforcement Supervisor (former BLM Special Agent-in-Charge Dan Love) that was only in part focused on the intent of the associated Federal Court Orders and the mission of our agency (to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the multiple use and enjoyment of present and future generations).
So: the BLM Asshat-In-Charge apparently wanted to make sure the peasants knew that in the future they'd all bow down, and apparently knew he'd get away with breaking the law, and regulations.  And without a whistleblower who seems to actually give a crap, he probably would have.

To everyone who professed that all those ranchers and others hate BLM and the Forestry Service 'because greedy and uncaring!': oh, no, they have GOOD reason to hate those clowns.