Authorities identify persons of interest in cattle theft

By PAUL STONE
The Palestine Herald

FRANKSTON April 15, 2009 10:36 pm

— Anderson County authorities say they have identified “persons of interest” in connection with last week’s theft of 10 Black Angus cows in the Frankston area.
Anderson County Sheriff Greg Taylor said the cattle allegedly were stolen from a pasture on CR 3051, east of Frankston, sometime last Thursday afternoon. The cows were recovered at the Athens sale barn later that same day at approximately 8:30 p.m. after authorities received a tip, according to the sheriff.
“They seemed to all be in good shape,” Taylor said about the cattle.
Authorities believe the culprits cut through a fence to gain entry into the pasture.
Other Black Angus cattle were left behind, the sheriff added.
“Apparently, they just cut 10 out of the group and hauled them for sale,” Taylor said.
Sheriff’s Sgt. Steve Whittmore took the initial report, while sheriff’s Sgt. Jay Russell and Jimmy Dickson, a special ranger with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, were the chief investigators, according to the sheriff.
Taylor said investigators believe multiple persons participated in the theft.
“There are several persons of interest that we are pursuing in this case,” the sheriff stated. “...Charges should be filed before too long.”
Theft of livestock is a third-degree felony, although engaging in organized criminal activity charges could ultimately be filed in the case if authorities determine three or more people participated in the crime.
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Paul Stone may be contacted via e-mail at pstone@palestineherald.com