December 30, 2013
Cattle confiscated
By STU MERRY
McLean County authorities and the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association continue to investigate an alleged abuse of livestock in the Butte area.
The approximately 200 head of cattle are owned by Fred Schmidt.
Stan Misek, state brand inspector with the Stockmen’s Association, said the cattle, along with a number of strays, have been allowed to roam free in the area. He, county law enforcement and States Attorney Ladd Erickson, said the livestock has been allowed to roam free for so long that many have turned wild.
The task of rounding up the animals began in mid-December following the issuance of a court order. A helicopter was also used to gather the cattle. The livestock were to be sold at auction this week.
