Introduction to Cattle Theft Investigation

While it may sound like a tale from the Wild West, cattle theft remains a real and pressing issue in Canada today. The Introduction to Cattle Theft Investigation course introduces the complexities of livestock theft, with a special focus on Saskatchewan. Designed for law enforcement and other professionals tasked with investigating agricultural crimes, the course explores the motives and methods behind cattle theft, outlines relevant legislation and penalties, and details the investigative procedures critical to solving these cases.

Investigators will also learn practical tools and preventative strategies that they can share with producers to help deter future incidents. By combining legal insights with on-the-ground prevention tactics, this course equips learners with the knowledge needed to approach cattle theft with confidence and clarity.

When you have completed this course you will be able to:

• Identify the scale of the Canadian beef industry, including economic impact and distribution of farms/cattle across the country.
• Explain the scope and impact of cattle theft in the Canadian cattle industry.
• Recall the motives and tactics behind cattle theft and the ways it has been addressed historically and in the present day.
• Describe legislation associated with cattle theft and associated penalties.
• Describe certain provincial models for dealing with cattle theft.
• Recall the elements of a cattle theft investigation.
• Summarize actions to prevent or reduce the incidence of cattle theft.

Target Audience

Sworn Police, Police Services, Government and Other First Responders

Content Provider

Content for this course was provided by the Saskatchewan Marshals Service.