Cattle rustling on the rise in Texas

DAMON, TX (KTRK) -- Cattle ranchers are having to get more creative when it comes to protecting their herds. Thefts are on the rise in Texas and Oklahoma, even as the number of cattle shrinks.

Livestock deputies are investigating a cattle rustling case out of Damon, Texas. Someone stole four calves and $1,000 worth of farming equipment from 6E Ranch off Highway 36. Neil Yelderman is offering a reward to anyone who helps capture the thieves. He posted a large billboard along the highway, asking for help. Still, no one has come forward.

Meanwhile, deputies have made an arrest in a similar case nearby. Investigators are trying to determine if the cases are related.

A spokesman for the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association says cattle rustling has been on the rise in the past few years.

Last year, Oklahoma and Texas reported a 40 percent spike in cattle thefts.