The Osage Nation is facing a distressing case of livestock loss as reports of stolen and dead cattle from the Osage Nation Ranch have surfaced. According to the Osage News, a saddening total of 28 cows and calves, which included 12 calves and five cows reported missing, alongside 11 found dead, has gripped the community.
The theft occurred between July 23 and 25, detailed by heartbreaking statement provided to the Osage Nation Police Department via a ranch foreman on Thursday, suggesting that the culprits had intended to steal more cattle but were likely interrupted. Found dead last Sunday, it's believed that the remaining cows, penned up, suffered an unnecessary death due to the criminal act, possibly aborted by the rustlers being spooked, as reported by Osage News.
In an interview with Osage News, Osage LLC Board Chairman Galen Crum expressed his theory, saying, "They stole the calves and the five cows, that's just about a 20-foot gooseneck trailer load. The 11 head [of cattle] that they left penned up ... would be another trailer load. My theory is that they were coming for the others and got scared off." He also highlighted the difficulty in recovering stolen cattle but stressed the uniqueness of the Osage Nation Ranch brand which could aid in the identification of the stolen animals.
Amidst these tragic events, Osage Nation is taking steps to enhance the security of their cattle. Galen Crum suggested the use of advanced surveillance technologies, such as drones, could potentially thwart future thefts, a move supported by the substantial revenue generated from livestock sales, as reported by Osage News with the ranch's recent auction bringing in over $1.1 million in sales.
The Osage Nation Police Department, as reported by OKC FOX, are working with other agencies in hopes to solve this case and are urging the public to report any sightings of the cattle, identifiable by the Osage Nation Ranch branding. The police have provided contact information for the Osage County Sheriff's Office dispatch and the option to message ON Police Department's Facebook page directly with any relevant information.
The case remains without suspects despite law enforcement's ongoing investigations. Meanwhile, the community and law enforcement are appealing for vigilance and any information that could lead to the apprehension of the culprits and the recovery of the stolen cattle, as per the statements and updates from both the Osage LLC and the Principal Chief of the Osage Nation. They have voiced their determination to bring those responsible to justice as documented in Fox 23 News.
