ATLANTA — Investigators with the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) helped to resolve a horse theft case that spanned multiple states, Commissioner Tyler Harper announced on Monday. The investigation, led by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture's Law Enforcement Division, involved a "sophisticated, fraudulent theft by deception scheme," a release said.
Arkansas authorities requested the GDA Law Enforcement Division's assistance after discovering that part of the fraudulent operation had extended into Georgia. The collaboration between the two agencies led to the swift identification and apprehension of the suspects within Georgia.
In this case, suspects allegedly used fraudulent financial transactions and false representations to unlawfully acquire multiple horses, resulting in significant monetary loss to the victims in Arkansas, according to a release.
Officers from both agencies dedicated many hours to identifying and interviewing witnesses as well as investigating financial transactions, transportation records, and sale records of the stolen horses, which occurred in a third state.
“Our Department’s Law Enforcement Team is committed to supporting other law enforcement agencies here in Georgia and across state lines to help ensure those who commit crimes involving agriculture are brought to justice,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. “This case required close cooperation, resources, and expertise from both agencies, and we are proud to have played a role in solving this case and providing closure for the victims.”
Horse theft remains a significant issue for agricultural producers, ranchers, and equine enthusiasts, the GDA said. Multiple cases have been reported across the Southeast in recent months, including in Florida, Mississippi, and Texas. Nationwide, an estimated 40,000 horses are stolen each year.
