News Release



For further information please contact: Sgt. Jason Clark

(573) 694-7514

DDCC091406

September 14, 2006



EMPHASIS: Stolen Cattle Recovered







Captain Luke Vislay, Director of the Division of Drug and Crime Control, announces as a result of the ongoing cattle theft investigation nearly 100 head of stolen cattle have been recovered during the past three days. The Governor’s Cattle Theft Task Force, which includes investigators from the Missouri Water Patrol and the Missouri State Highway Patrol, along with the Cooper, Miller, and Pulaski County Sheriff’s Departments have worked continuously on this investigation since it began in early May 2006.



Anthony A. Smith was arrested on September 11, 2006, in connection with this investigation and has now been implicated in thefts occurring in Miller and Cooper Counties. Additional charges will be filed in Phelps County as well for other stealing related crimes. Smith a 34-year-old white male resides in Phelps County where the cattle have been recovered. The estimated value of these animals is approximately $100,000.00. Steps to identify additional victims are being conducted as the investigation continues.



“We must ensure the integrity of Missouri’s agriculture community is kept intact, stated Captain Vislay. Protecting our farmers from needless acts of thefts is essential for the state of Missouri and its law enforcement community. I ask anyone with information or knowledge relating to thefts of livestock to contact their local police department, sheriff’s office or call the toll free Cattle Theft Hot Line Number at 1-866-362-6422.”



The above charges are mere accusation and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of these charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is determine guilt or innocence.