Authorities investigate the theft and malicious killing of a calf in Washington and Payette Counties

MERIDIAN, Idaho — The Idaho State Brand Inspector’s Office requests the public’s help to identify those responsible for the theft and malicious killing of a calf in Washington and Payette Counties.

Investigators believe a 3-month-old white Charolais cross heifer calf, weighing about 200 pounds and marked with the rancher’s registered brand, was stolen from open range along Little Willow Road near Paddock Reservoir around April 21, 2026.

The calf, worth more than $1,500, was found dead and partially mutilated the next day near Blacks Bridge outside New Plymouth in Payette County, about 20 miles from the suspected theft location.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Idaho State Brand Inspector’s Office are investigating the case with the Payette County Sheriff’s Office, which received the report after the calf was found.

Investigators ask anyone who saw suspicious vehicles, trailers, livestock activity, or individuals near Little Willow Road, Paddock Reservoir, or Blacks Bridge on the evening of April 21 or early April 22 to contact authorities immediately. If you have information, please contact the Idaho State Brand Inspector’s Office at 208-884-7070 or by email at ContactBrands@isp.idaho.gov.

All theft, mutilation, and/or illegal slaughtering of livestock is a felony in the State of Idaho. The Idaho Cattle Association is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of the individuals involved in the theft and killing of the calf.

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Posted in District 3 - Western Idaho