At a time of record-high cattle value, management to prevent cattle theft has more value than ever as well. Preventing cattle theft involves consistent herd monitoring, secure fencing and proper identification of cattle. While some large-scale thefts occur, it is often small operations (less than 50 head) which are targeted.
Thieves, often suffering from drug and alcohol addiction, are motivated by the need to make fast money. In Oklahoma, cattle theft is a serious felony with penalties of up to 10 years in prison per head, plus potential court-ordered restitution for up to three times the value of the cattle stolen.
Some key steps of action to prevent theft include:
• Branding: Branding is considered the most effective way to prevent and track stolen cattle. Although it is not legally required in Oklahoma, branding remains the primary deterrent. Unbranded cattle are virtually impossible to track once stolen.
• Secure facilities: Lock gates, chain portable panels and ensure corrals are not easily accessible from high-traffic highways. Avoid leaving cattle penned overnight, or for any longer than necessary.
• Frequent audits: Count cattle regularly, especially if they are scattered across multiple locations.
• Staggered routine: Alter your feeding times and routine enough that thieves can’t target your cattle during a time they know you will be gone.
• Record keeping: Maintain detailed, written records of herd numbers and individual ID tags, with copies stored in a secure, separate location. Keep copies (electronic and hard copies) that can be shared with law enforcement after theft.
• Strategic location: Avoid leaving cattle in pens near high-traffic roads.
If cattle are suspected of being stolen, take immediate action. Contact your local county sheriff’s office. Furthermore, being proactive and reporting suspicious vehicles or activities to local law enforcement in advance of theft is an effective deterrent. Notify the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture (specifically the Animal Industry Services division), as they can notify auction markets to watch for the stolen animals. The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association employs special rangers who collaborate with Oklahoma law enforcement to investigate livestock crimes. — Mark Z. Johnson, Oklahoma State University Extension beef cattle breeding specialist
