United States-Dealing with cattle theives.

UNITED STATES-DEALING WITH CATTLE RUSTLERS.

The Texas Senate has approved a bill that would stiffen penalties for the theft of cattle or other farm and ranch animals.

The bill would make theft of any cattle, horses or exotic livestock a third-degree felony punishable by as much as 10 years in prison and a fine of as much as $10,000.

It’s now a state jail felony punishable by as much as two years in jail and a $10,000 fine to steal fewer than 10 head of cattle, horses or exotic livestock.

The bill by Sen. Kel Seliger of Amarillo also would make it a third-degree felony to steal 10 or more head of sheep, goats or swine.

The legislation, which now moves to the House, raises penalties when the value of the farm animals exceeds $20,000.

The Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association says cattle theft has skyrocketed.

In 2007, about 2,400 head of cattle were reported as stolen to the association. In 2008, that number jumped to more than 6,400.

"Cattle theft is very active in Texas , especially during tough economic times," Larry Gray, TSCRA executive director of law enforcement said.

"Thieves are drawn to cattle because of the potential return," Gray said.

"While stealing a car or television will get a thief pennies on the dollar, stealing cattle can return actual market value within hours. A thief can steal one cow, take it to the auction the same day and receive the value of that animal. The crime is attractive, and in Texas we need a stronger penalty"