Albany native, Ronnie Joe Patterson, was arrested on a warrant for theft of livestock issued in Potter County. The warrant follows an investigation conducted by Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Chris Ward.
In December 2022, the victim, a rancher from Potter County, discovered a discrepancy in his calf counts. The victim contacted Ward, stating his belief that his employee, Patterson, had stolen the calves.
Ward found evidence that is believed to link Patterson to the crime and determined that he had received proceeds from the stolen cattle.
Ward submitted his findings to the Potter County District Attorney’s Office, which reviewed the investigation and secured an indictment for livestock theft. A warrant was issued for Patterson’s arrest.
In Shackelford County, Patterson was apprehended on June 8, 2024, and is currently out on bond.
While the amount of cattle missing has not been disclosed yet, livestock theft, often referred to as cattle rustling, is a serious crime in Texas due to its significant agricultural industry. Texas has specific laws and penalties in place to address livestock theft.
Theft of livestock valued at $30,000 or more is a third-degree felony, punishable by imprisonment for two to 10 years and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
In addition to criminal penalties, a person convicted of livestock theft may be ordered to pay restitution to the owner for the value of the stolen livestock and any additional economic damages caused by the theft.
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