WINTERSET, Iowa — A Madison County cattle producer is facing dozens of criminal charges after authorities reported finding malnourished cattle and multiple dead animals on a farm near Winterset.
According to court records, 29-year-old Blake Rutz was arrested after an investigation uncovered more than 50 cows and several calves in poor condition. Authorities also reported finding eight dead cattle on the property.
The case began earlier this year when several cattle producers filed a civil lawsuit alleging that Rutz failed to fulfill obligations tied to livestock breeding agreements. The lawsuit claimed cattle embryos and breeding cows had been provided to Rutz under contract, but some embryos were never implanted and certain cattle were not returned to their owners as required.
In response, the cattle owners sought a Writ of Replevin, a court order allowing the recovery of property alleged to be unlawfully withheld. A judge approved the request in May.
According to a search warrant, deputies with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office arrived at the farm on June 4 to execute the order. While attempting to locate the cattle, investigators reported discovering animals that appeared severely underweight and showing signs of neglect.
Authorities noted that many of the cattle had visible ribs, spines, and hip bones, conditions commonly associated with prolonged lack of nutrition. Investigators also reported that the animals did not appear to have adequate access to feed.
During the investigation, deputies located eight dead cattle. Court documents indicate six carcasses were found inside barns, while two others were discovered uncovered on a compost pile. Some of the dead animals were reportedly calves.
Officials removed all surviving cattle from the property and placed them into protective care.
Rutz was arrested over the weekend and charged with 55 counts of livestock neglect and eight counts of failure to dispose of dead animals. All charges are currently listed as simple misdemeanors.
According to the Madison County Jail, Rutz remains in custody on a $19,000 bond. A preliminary court hearing has not yet been scheduled.