A Saskatchewan man is facing charges for allegedly engaging in cattle brand fraud, shedding light on the crucial role of the lone livestock investigator within the Saskatchewan RCMP. Cpl. Owen Third assumed this specialized position in 2023 following over 18 years of service with the RCMP. Third emphasizes that a significant part of his work involves educating producers and supporting RCMP detachments across Saskatchewan that may lack the necessary resources or expertise to assist producers effectively.
While Third handles criminal investigations, Livestock Services of Saskatchewan (LSS) oversees the administration of Saskatchewan’s Animal Production Act and offers livestock inspection and identification services. Collaborating closely with LSS during inquiries, Third is praised by Jason Pollock, the CEO of LSS, for bringing consistency and persistence to the investigative process. Pollock notes that many RCMP officers in Saskatchewan lack familiarity with the agricultural sector, making Third’s expertise invaluable in understanding the intricacies of livestock-related cases.
The recent charges stemmed from a tip provided to the RCMP by LSS, which identified altered cattle brands at a farm in the rural municipality of Martin, situated approximately 225 kilometers east of Regina. The investigation, involving brand inspectors from LSS, examined 197 cattle, revealing that 99 had altered brands placed over the original ones, while the rest bore fraudulent new brands.
Third revealed that these charges mark the first instance of criminal charges related to fraudulent branding since he assumed the role. While he refrained from discussing specifics of the case, he suggested that many livestock investigations often have civil components underlying them. As the legal proceedings progress, more details are expected to surface.
Notably, Third is one of only four RCMP livestock investigators nationwide. Pollock highlighted that the volume of referrals and complaints in Saskatchewan ensures that both LSS and Third will remain occupied for the foreseeable future, given the substantial financial impact of such cases on the affected parties.