18 cows stolen from Rhode Island farm

TIVERTON, R.I. (WHDH) -- More than a dozen cows disappeared from a Tiverton, Rhode Island farm and their owner wants them back.

It was a brazen crime in broad daylight as at least 18 cows were stolen from a farm.

“I think there are at least 18 gone. Those cows, they’re somewhere in the 50 to 60 thousand dollar range,” said Arthur Smith, a farmer.

All of the other animals on the farm were accounted for but the missing cows are nowhere to be found. Farmer Arthur Smith and his crew realized they were missing around feeding time on Wednesday. They called Tiverton Police who are investigating the rare case of cattle rustling in Rhode Island.

Authorities said they may be close to a break in the case. A source involved in the investigation said the cows were tracked to a location in Connecticut. Investigators are working with authorities there to confirm the cows are from Tiverton.

Smith said whoever stole the animals was probably watching his farm for several days, waiting for the right moment to strike.

“This was planned. You just don’t come and take 18 cows,” said Smith.

Smith just wants the cows back on the farm, safe and sound.

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