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For more information contact: Katrina Waters at 800/242-7820 or kwaters@texascattleraisers.org

Suspects arrested in North Texas-Southern Oklahoma theft ring

Stolen property valued at more than $27,000

FORT WORTH, Texas, September 11, 2008—Thanks to a crucial tip from an observant citizen, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Scott Williamson was able to work with the Jackson County (Okla.) and Harmon County (Okla.) sheriff's offices and the Texas Department of Public Safety to make two arrests this week in a theft case spanning three counties and two states.

            Derek Matern and James Galvan were arrested Tuesday on eight felony charges, including the theft of four pipe trailers and aluminum irrigation pipe, two ATVs, one custom saddle, and a shotgun. The stolen property is valued at more than $27,000, Williamson said.

            He said the first theft was reported in early August. The crimes were committed in Childress County (Texas), Jackson County (Okla.) and Harmon County (Okla.).

            Williamson is quick to credit the hard work from Jackson County (Okla.) and Harmon County (Okla.) sheriff's offices and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

            "It was definitely a team effort," he said. "Everyone was helping and working together."

            He is also appreciative of the citizen's tip that helped break the case and strongly encourages others to take the time to report any suspicious activity.

            TSCRA currently has 28 special rangers stationed strategically throughout Texas and Oklahoma who have in-depth knowledge of the cattle industry and are trained in all facets of law enforcement. All are commissioned as Special Rangers by the Texas Department of Public Safety and/or the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation.

Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association is a 131-year-old trade organization whose 15,000 members manage approximately 4 million head of cattle on 51.5 million acres of range and pasture land, primarily in Texas and Oklahoma. TSCRA provides law enforcement services, livestock inspection, legislative and regulatory advocacy and education opportunities for its members.

TSCRA–38–2008