SASKATCHEWAN – Recent livestock thefts are not reflective of a spike in crime, rather a case of better reporting.
That’s what Livestock Services Operations Manager Garth Woods said in light of recent cases.
Last week, reported a herd of 17 horses in the Lestock area had been missing since June. The unbranded horses were described as being brown and white, mostly comprised of mares and geldings.
Another report out of the Buchanan area noted two cow/calf pairs missing from a producer’s yard earlier this month. The cows were branded, and the calves had ear tags.
Woods noted the thefts may not necessarily be connected, or construed as a surge in livestock thefts. He pointed to a better system of reporting and the fact of a dedicated RCMP officer assisting Livestock Services to investigate such occurrences.
Utilizing the Crime Watch Advisory Network in spreading the word has also assisted producers in keeping an eye out for animals that maybe aren’t supposed to be where they’re noticed.
“Harbouring is much more common,” Woods said when asked about what would motivate thefts - especially of branded livestock.
Anyone with information about livestock theft can contact their local RCMP detachment, or call Livestock Services at (306) 546-5086.
Cattle rustling is a serious offence, which can mean up to 10 years in jail for those caught.
The best advice for those worried about animals being stolen is simple - brand.
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