Saskatchewan RCMP Charges Man for Alleged Cattle Brand Fraud
A Saskatchewan man is facing charges for allegedly engaging in fraudulent cattle branding, shedding light on the pivotal role of the Saskatchewan RCMP’s lone livestock investigator, Cpl. Owen Third. Third assumed this specialized position in 2023 following over 18 years of service with the RCMP. He emphasizes the dual role of educating producers and aiding detachments across the province, noting that many detachments lack the necessary resources and expertise to support producers effectively.
Cpl. Third spearheads criminal investigations, while Livestock Services of Saskatchewan (LSS) manages Saskatchewan’s Animal Production Act and offers livestock inspection and identification services. Collaborating frequently with LSS during investigations, Third’s efforts are praised by Jason Pollock, LSS’s CEO, who lauds Third’s invaluable contributions in providing consistency and perseverance.
The recent charges stemmed from a tip received by LSS regarding altered cattle brands at a farm in the rural municipality of Martin, located approximately 225 kilometers east of Regina. Subsequently, 197 cattle, including cows and calves, underwent inspection as part of the investigation, involving brand inspectors from LSS. RCMP disclosed that 99 cattle bore an altered brand overlaying the original one, while the remaining animals were fraudulently branded with a new mark.
In his role, Third highlights the civil aspects often intertwined with livestock investigations, refraining from direct comments on ongoing cases but acknowledging the unique circumstances at play. As the legal process unfolds, further details will surface, offering clarity on the matter. Notably, Third stands as one of just four RCMP livestock investigators nationwide, with Pollock affirming a substantial caseload in Saskatchewan that will likely keep both LSS and Third occupied for the foreseeable future. The CEO underscores that while the number of incidents may not be excessive, the financial stakes are significant, particularly for the involved parties.
