Colfax, North Dakota – A Richland County rancher is facing felony charges after authorities uncovered a scheme involving the theft of cattle valued at over $650,000. Daniel Dockter, 40, is accused of defrauding two ranchers in Benson County, North Dakota, by falsely claiming their cattle were being held at a non-existent feedlot in South Dakota.
The case, which has drawn attention from the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, centers around agreements where Dockter was entrusted with the care of the ranchers’ livestock. Court documents reveal a pattern of deception and the disappearance of branded cattle. The investigation highlights the vulnerabilities within livestock share agreements and the potential for significant financial loss for ranchers.
According to court records, one rancher delivered 93 head of cows and three bulls to Dockter’s property in November 2019, while another moved 40 cows there in 2021. Both ranchers entered into agreements with Dockter regarding a share of the calf crop. When balances went unpaid and cattle began to disappear, the ranchers sought legal counsel, initiating an investigation that ultimately led to the charges against Dockter.
Investigation Uncovers Fictitious Feedlot
The investigation, spearheaded by the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, revealed that Dockter allegedly misled the ranchers by stating their cattle were located at a fictitious feedlot in South Dakota. A search warrant was executed at Dockter’s property on January 8, 2026, where authorities inventoried 165 head of cattle. Crucially, none of the cattle on the property were identified as belonging to the two Benson County ranchers through branding, according to KVRR.
Dockter now faces two counts of felony theft, each carrying a potential penalty for theft exceeding $50,000 and two counts of unlawful transport of livestock. The charges were filed in Richland County District Court. A preliminary hearing, initially scheduled for March 23, has been waived, according to Wahpeton Daily News. Dockter is currently in custody at the Richland County Jail.
Impact on Ranching Community
This case underscores the importance of due diligence and robust contractual agreements within the agricultural community. The North Dakota Stockmen’s Association plays a vital role in investigating livestock theft and assisting ranchers in recovering their assets. The alleged theft of over $650,000 represents a significant financial blow to the affected ranchers and raises concerns about similar potential schemes.
“Livestock theft is a serious crime that impacts not only the individual ranchers but the entire agricultural economy,” stated Nicholas Marolt in an unsworn declaration provided to the Southeast Judicial District Court, as reported by Wahpeton Daily News.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather evidence related to the alleged theft and the disposition of the missing cattle. News USA Today reports that the case involves multiple head of livestock and accusations of deceptive practices.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus will be on establishing the extent of Dockter’s alleged involvement and recovering the stolen cattle or their monetary value. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for future livestock theft investigations and influence the safeguards implemented within the industry. The next step in the legal process will be further court proceedings as the case moves toward potential trial or resolution.
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