In an old-timey feeling case of “cattle rustling,” JW Cattle Company found itself shy of about 40 head of cattle and one of the Texas ranch’s bulls.
It appears that bovine bandits struck sometime between February and April 4, 2024, leaving the rancher considerably shy on his count and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office in pursuit of the thieves.
On April 5, 2024, around 4:45 p.m., authorities said that the JW Cattle Company reported the disappearance of its cattle to authorities. The missing cattle were a mix of black baldies and black Angus, bringing the estimated total value of the stolen livestock to $100,000.
Adding a clue to this bovine mystery, a vigilant neighbor spotted a tan pickup truck with a cattle trailer near the ranch’s gates days before the cows were reported missing. Despite this lead, officials say there are currently no suspects in the case.
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is rounding up any information on this heist. Anyone with tips can contact their office at (940) 538-5611 or submit an anonymous report online for a shot at a cash reward.
Livestock theft, often referred to as cattle rustling, is a serious crime in Texas due to its significant agricultural industry. Texas has specific laws and penalties in place to address livestock theft.
Theft of livestock valued at $30,000 or more is a third-degree felony, punishable by imprisonment for two to 10 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
In addition to criminal penalties, a person convicted of livestock theft may be ordered to pay restitution to the owner for the value of the stolen livestock and any additional economic damages caused by the theft.
