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Man arrested for theft of livestock after allegedly consigning part of cattle deliveries in his own name

Dozens of cattle go missing in CTX
Posted at 5:34 PM, Feb 10, 2021
and last updated 2021-02-10 18:34:58-05

CORYELL COUNTY, TX — A man has been arrested for two counts of theft of livestock after allegedly consigning part of cattle deliveries in his own name.

According to Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Marvin Wills, 36-year-old James Anthony "Tony" Manning turned himself in to the Coryell County Jail Monday on two counts of theft of livestock, which are third-degree felonies.

Manning was a day worker for the victim, who ranches in Coryell County.

Special Ranger Wills says on two occasions, Manning delivered cattle to public livestock markets at the direction of his client. Each time, Manning allegedly consigned part of the cattle in his own name "without the owner's permission or knowledge."

The Coryell County Criminal Investigation Department assisted in the investigation.

Justice of the Peace Coy Latham set two $10,000 bonds for Manning, who is currently in the Coryell County Jail.

Authorities say he also faces charges of possession of a controlled substance and felon in possession of a firearm. Those charges are being handled by the Coryell County Criminal Investigation Department.

Special Ranger Wills says Manning was previously convicted of theft of livestock in Coryell County in September 2015. He was sentenced to four years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Authorities are reminding cattle raisers to supervise employees, contract workers and haulers. Raisers should also brand and/or earmark all animals, as well as register the identifiers at the county clerk's office.

“Ear tags are not enough,” Special Ranger Wills said. “They are easily removed and discarded, so they just keep your neighbors honest.”