FORT WORTH, Texas (November 10, 2026) — A Vernon man was arrested Nov. 4 following an investigation into the reported theft of 14 donkeys in Wilbarger County.
Garrett Pierce, 22, was arrested by Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Ranger Cliff Swofford and charged with theft of livestock, a third-degree felony.
Swofford opened the investigation in late October 2026. Investigators obtained evidence and witness statements indicating Pierce allegedly took 14 donkeys belonging to a Vernon family on two separate occasions between Aug. 30 and Sept. 30 and later sold them to a livestock trader.
Investigators estimated the donkeys’ market value at $400 to $700 per animal. Authorities allege Pierce received just over $1,200 for the animals.
Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association Special Rangers thank Texas Game Warden Matt Thompson; Wilbarger County Sherrif’s Department; and the Bowie Livestock Sale Barn for their assistance in this investigation.
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