BRAND & THEFT COMMITTEE
Joe Schettler, Chairman
Scott Katus, Vice Chairman
24-Resolution passed in 2024
23-Resolution passed in 2023
22-Resolution passed in 2022
BRAND OFFICIALS’ INVOLVEMENT IN ANIMAL SEIZURES - 24 (BT)
WHEREAS, statutes within the livestock chapter of the North Dakota Century Code allow for the seizure and forced sale of livestock protected under the state’s brand laws resulting in a change of ownership; and
WHEREAS, the deputy brand inspectors and chief brand inspector of the NDSA are granted law enforcement authority to carry out state law.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the NDSA supports the requirement that an NDSA licensed peace officer be involved before seizure and the possible sale of any livestock protected under North Dakota brand law prior to the animals being seized or removed from a premises.
BRAND LAW ENFORCEMENT - 22 (BT)
WHEREAS, the NDSA was established to protect livestock producers against loss and theft; and
WHEREAS, North Dakota’s brand laws and brand programs are designed to achieve that goal; and
WHEREAS, NDSA brand officials work cooperatively with law enforcement agencies, state’s attorneys and others to bring forth justice in livestock-related cases.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the NDSA works to strengthen the enforcement of North Dakota’s livestock laws to enhance the protection of livestock producers.
STOLEN CATTLE - 22 (BT)
WHEREAS, a specific federal statute prohibits the interstate shipment of stolen cattle and prescribes a penalty for its violation without regard to the outcome of any local prosecution for the larceny of the cattle involved in the interstate shipment; and
WHEREAS, this federal law is not adequately enforced, especially where local action has been taken.
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the NDSA urges and specifically requests the Justice Department to prosecute all known violators of the federal law and, further, to vigorously enforce such law without regard to the outcome of any local prosecution.