COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Colorado ranchers who have experienced livestock theft firsthand are celebrating a new law designed to speed up investigations and improve communication when cattle disappear.
Gov. Jared Polis recently signed legislation requiring faster coordination between the state’s Division of Brand Inspection and law enforcement agencies when livestock theft is reported. The measure also calls for quicker public notification when animals are reported missing or stolen.
The effort was supported by ranchers Nicole and C.W. Mallery of Freedom Acres Ranch in El Paso County, who say livestock theft has become an increasing concern for producers.
The couple reported losing multiple cattle over the past two years, a costly setback for an operation focused on building quality genetics and maintaining herd numbers.
Under the previous system, ranchers often reported missing livestock to local law enforcement before being directed to state brand inspectors. Producers said the process could take days before an investigation moved forward, reducing the chances of recovering stolen animals.
The new law establishes a faster reporting framework, requiring information about stolen livestock to be shared with appropriate law enforcement agencies within 24 hours.
Supporters say those first hours are often critical. The quicker investigators receive information, the greater the chance of locating animals before they are transported out of the area or sold through other channels.
Colorado’s cattle industry remains one of the state’s most valuable agricultural sectors, generating billions of dollars in economic activity annually. Ranchers argue that protecting livestock from theft is essential not only for individual operations but also for the broader beef industry.
The legislation received bipartisan support in the state legislature before reaching the governor’s desk.
Producers say rising cattle values have increased the financial incentive for theft in recent years. With cattle prices remaining near historic highs, the loss of even a few head can represent a significant economic hit for family ranches.
Supporters of the measure believe stronger reporting requirements, faster communication, and greater public awareness will help deter theft while giving ranchers and law enforcement a better chance of recovering stolen livestock.
For many Colorado cattle producers, the new law represents another tool to protect one of their most valuable assets — the cow herd.
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