Think Cattle Rustling Is History? Kansas Ranchers Are Still Fighting This Costly Crime

Cattle theft may sound like a relic of the Wild West, but for Kansas ranchers, it remains a serious and costly problem. While rustlers may not be riding off into the sunset with stolen herds on horseback, they are still using deceptive means—whether through fraud, illegal branding, or outright theft—to take what isn’t theirs. With recent reports of stolen cattle surfacing across the state of Kansas, it’s more important than ever for ranchers to know their legal rights and what steps they can take to protect their herds. 

Live cattle have increased 4.59% since the beginning of 2025 and feeder cattle have increased 5.40% since the beginning of 2025. “With cattle prices at all-time highs, the incentive for thieves has never been greater,” says Jim Angell, Managing Partner at Kennedy Berkley. “It’s a crime that hits ranchers hard, and it’s not going away. We see cattle theft mostly in the form of fraud in our office.” 

The Rise of Cattle Theft in Kansas

In recent months, multiple reports have surfaced of stolen cattle right here in Kansas. The Livestock Marketing Association recently issued a warning to ranchers after 23 black steers, weighing about 600 pounds each, were stolen from a ranch near Thayer, Kansas. The animals, all marked with a distinct brand and purple ear tags, vanished without a trace. Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated incident—cases of cattle theft have been reported across the Midwest, affecting ranchers' livelihoods and the local economy.

Kansas isn’t the only state dealing with rustlers. Oklahoma, Texas, and Nebraska have also seen an uptick in cattle thefts, with thieves taking advantage of fluctuating cattle prices and the difficulty of tracking stolen livestock. With prices high and enforcement spread thin, some criminals see cattle rustling as a lucrative though illegal business opportunity.

Know Your Rights: Legal Protections Every Kansas Rancher Should Understand

Under K.S.A. 21-5801, stealing livestock valued at over $1,500 is considered a felony, carrying stiff penalties, including jail time and fines. . “Victims can pursue civil lawsuits to recover losses, but it’s critical to act fast and gather evidence,” advises Jim Angell. “The law is on your side, but you have to know how to use it.” 

Beyond criminal penalties, ranchers who fall victim to cattle theft have legal avenues for seeking restitution. Victims can file civil lawsuits against perpetrators to recover financial losses, and law enforcement agencies work closely with organizations like the Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) to investigate these crimes.

Kansas Livestock Association’s Reward Program: Turning Tips Into Justice 

The Kansas Livestock Association (KLA) offers a reward program for individuals who provide information leading to the arrest and conviction of cattle thieves. The program offers up to $5,000 for tips related to crimes such as:

• Stealing, killing, or seriously injuring livestock

• Stealing livestock equipment, tack, pharmaceuticals, or hay

• Arson of agricultural property

Ranchers who are members of KLA can also receive free reward signs to post on their property as a deterrent. These signs make it clear that cattle rustling is not just a crime—it’s a crime that Kansas takes seriously.

 How to Respond to Cattle Rustling: A Rancher’s Action Plan

If you suspect cattle theft, act quickly:

1. Report the theft immediately to local law enforcement and the Kansas Department of Agriculture.

2. Contact the Kansas Livestock Association to spread awareness and potentially qualify for their reward program.

3. Check local sale barns and online listings where stolen cattle may be sold.

4. Gather evidence, including brand registrations, ear tag numbers, and surveillance footage. If this comes to a civil suit, you will need as much evidence as possible. 

   
   

The Fight Against Cattle Theft: Protecting Your Herd and Your Rights

Cattle theft is an age-old crime that continues to plague Kansas ranchers. However, with strong legal protections, vigilant law enforcement, and proactive prevention strategies, ranchers have tools at their disposal to combat modern-day rustlers. By staying informed and taking steps to secure their livestock, cattle owners can help ensure that their hard work isn’t lost to thieves.

At Kennedy Berkley, we understand the legal challenges that come with cattle theft and fraud. If you or someone you know has been affected by livestock theft, our attorneys are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about your legal rights and options.