After two dairy calves were stolen from a Bedford County, Tenn., farm in January, the cattle owner installed a trail camera to monitor activity on the farm.That camera captured the theft of a third calf in February and led to the arrest of three suspected cattle thieves.?Using the video evidence, detectives with the Bedford County and Moore County Sheriff’s departments worked with the Tennessee Agricultural Crime Unit investigator Michael Whaley to develop suspects.On Feb. 20 and 21, Jamie Vaughn, Floyd Vaughn and Billy Batten of Moore County were arrested and charged with felony theft of property. The calves, valued at $1,800, were recovered in Moore County"We have seen an increase in thefts. Beef prices are high, and that can motivate thieves," said Max Thomas, Ag Crime Unit investigator supervisor.In 2014, the department investigated 22 theft cases involving 151 head of cattle. State investigators work closely with local authorities and livestock markets to track and recover stolen animals. However, livestock owners are encouraged to take action to guard their investment. |
