New deterrent for cattle thefts in Greene County

The Greene County Sheriff encourages cattle producers to take multiple steps to deter theft, including surveillance.

June 13, 2012|by Linda Russell | KY3 Reporter

SPRINGFIELD, Mo.-- Cattle thefts are on the rise in the Ozarks, and in Greene County, the sheriff's office and local businesses are joining forces to try and catch cattle rustlers in a modern way.

There are many tools cattle farmers use to try and deter a cattle thief, but the latest one will keep 24 hour watch. They're surveillance cameras.

For Charles Turk, raising cattle is nothing new. "I'm 72 years old. I've had cattle all my life," Turnk says.

But one thing has changed- the frequency of cattle thefts in Greene County. "Years ago, we really didn't have to worry about it," Turk says.

A few years ago, someone stole 16 of Turk's cattle, but he was lucky enough to find them at an area stock yard and identify the group because of one unique scar. "Yes, I was very fortunate," says Turk.

Too often, there is no form of ID. Ear tags can be removed, and many producers don't use a brand.
"You know, it's a little bit tough on them to stick a hot branding iron on them, but it would be the safe thing to do," says Turk.

"The producer has to be willing to register a brand, and they have to be willing to utilize that brand," says Tom Kissee of Springfield Livestock Marketing Center.

This year alone, 85 head of cattle have been reported stolen in Greene county, 43 in Lawrence County, 50 in Polk County, approximately 100 in Dade County, and 15 in Christian County.

"With a combination of things, we can make a difference," Arnott says. He warns farmers to vary their routines, keep gates locked and build corrals away from the road. "Whenever we build a permanent corral, we put it close to a house," Turk says.

Now, the sheriff's office and local businesses are offering another theft deterrant- 24 hour surveillance.
"I think it's a great idea," says Turk.

Farmers can borrow a camera with a refundable deposit, most being $200, and if a thief does come for their cattle, they can be caught in the act. "Hopefully we can have some success with it and make some arrests," Arnott says.

Still, nothing will replace good neighbors. "I think the best thing you can do is be good to your neighbor and they'll be good to you," says Turk.

The surveillance cameras are available at Mac's Vet Supply inside the Springfield Livestock Marketing Center. Both businesses pitched in to buy the cameras, along with Bass Pro and Pinnegar Chevrolet.

Arnott says deputies have also begun stopping any trailer hauling cattle at night. The Greene County Sheriff's Office also offers advisories about thefts and other issues through Nixle. The Sheriff encourages anyone to sign up.

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