News Release



For further information please contact: Sgt. Jason Clark

(573) 522-0980

DDCC091206

September 12, 2006



EMPHASIS: Arrest Made In Cattle Theft Investigation







Colonel James F. Keathley, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces the arrest of Anthony A. Smith, 34, of Newburg, MO. Smith was arrested in rural Phelps County on September 11, 2006, for stealing-related charges stemming from a cattle theft investigation that began in May 2006 in Cooper County. Smith is currently being held in the Cooper County Jail.

The Governor’s Cattle Theft Task Force spearheaded the investigation, which resulted in the recovery of 37 head of stolen cattle from a Phelps County farm. The estimated value of the animals exceeds $45,000. Efforts are being made to return the cattle to the original owner.



Corporal Steve Crain, Missouri State Water Patrol; Sergeant Mike Rogers and Corporal David Mease, Missouri State Highway Patrol; and deputies with the Cooper County Sheriff’s Office continue to investigate. It is expected that additional cattle will be recovered in the near future. The success of this investigation can be attributed to the collective effort and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the Missouri cattle industry.



The above charges for which Smith was arrested are mere accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.