Authorities report that 64 Holstein calves were stolen overnight from a Mercer County family farm between 10 p.m. on May 2 and 6 a.m. on May 3. The calves, about 13 weeks old and roughly 250 pounds each, were kept in a converted turkey barn used as a calf starter facility. Investigators believe the theft was carried out by someone familiar with cattle who used livestock equipment to move the animals. Residents, farmers and sale barns are asked to be vigilant and report tips to the Mercer County Sheriff's Office at 419-586-7724 (ask for Sgt. Rachel Heinl).
64 Holstein Calves Stolen Overnight From Mercer County Farm — Authorities Seek Tips
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Dozens of young Holstein calves were taken in a large-scale overnight theft from a family farm in Mercer County, Ohio, law enforcement confirmed.
Authorities say 64 Holstein calves — each about 13 weeks old and roughly 250 pounds — disappeared from the property between about 10 p.m. on May 2 and 6 a.m. on May 3. The animals were housed in a converted turkey barn being used as a calf starter facility on a farm near Butler Township, in the area of State Route 219 and Coldwater Creek Road.
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Investigators believe the theft was planned and executed by someone familiar with cattle: the suspects likely used common livestock-handling equipment to load and move the animals. Many of the calves were described as having docked tails, and their size and age make them particularly valuable.
Local farmers, livestock sale barns and transporters have been asked to watch for calves matching this description and to report any suspicious activity or offers to sell similar animals. Anyone with information or camera footage from the area is asked to contact the Mercer County Sheriff's Office at 419-586-7724 and ask for Sgt. Rachel Heinl.
Initial coverage of the theft was provided by WDTN, WJW FOX 8 and WHIO-TV. Authorities continue to investigate and urge the community to report tips that could lead to the recovery of the animals and those responsible.
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