Three cows stolen this month from Tulare County ranches

TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) -- Tulare County authorities say there have been three incidents this month of cows being stolen, even some being sold.

Cows are easily spotted along country roads in Tulare County. Dairy in the Valley is a multi-billion dollar industry, but all those dollar signs are drawing the interest of some crooks.

"As with anything else if you can make money at it through criminal means that they're going to use that for their opportunity to do so," said Sheriff Mike Boudreaux of Tulare County.

Sheriff Boudreaux says they've had at least 11 cases this year where cows have been stolen. Thieves are mainly targeting calves and in one case 18 calves were taken.

Sheriff Boudreaux estimates the theft happens fast, "They're not that heavy, they're easy to use two arms and lift and put in the back of a trailer."

Police say a few suspects have been arrested and the Sheriff's Office is tracking others while working to keep cows safe.

The Sheriff's office is increasing patrols but also keeping an eye out in the sky using the department's plane.

The Sheriff's department needs the help of the ranchers and dairymen to help keep an eye out for suspicious activity.

"Every lead however small that you may see in your mind that would not be beneficial may be a lead that breaks open a case for law enforcement," stated Sheriff Boudreaux.

So if you see something, say something.