A Waller County man wanted on multiple felony livestock theft charges has been arrested following a coordinated law enforcement operation involving the Waller County Sheriff’s Office and Lake Jackson authorities.
According to the Waller County Sheriff’s Office, deputies recently located and arrested Douglas James Smith Sr., who was wanted on five felony warrants for Theft of Livestock Animal. While Smith was taken into custody in Waller County, the warrants are connected to alleged livestock thefts that occurred in multiple Texas counties.
The investigation was conducted by the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Rangers, who specialize in investigating livestock theft and agricultural crimes throughout the state. Investigators believed Smith had left Waller County in an effort to avoid apprehension and prosecution.
With assistance from law enforcement in Lake Jackson, deputies were able to locate Smith and take him into custody without incident. He was transported back to Waller County, where he was booked into the Waller County Jail.
Under Texas law, livestock theft is treated more severely than ordinary theft because of its impact on the state’s agricultural industry. Depending on the type, number and value of the animals involved, the offense can range from a state jail felony to a first-degree felony. Convictions can carry penalties ranging from 180 days to two years in a state jail facility for lower-level offenses to five to 99 years or life in prison for the most serious cases, along with fines of up to $10,000.
The Waller County Sheriff’s Office said it remains committed to working with local, state and specialized law enforcement agencies to investigate livestock crimes, hold offenders accountable and protect Texas’ agricultural community.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
