By MONETTE TAYLOR | South Central Texas Edition

June 29, 2006 - When Pete Vacek went to feed his cattle on Feb. 16 in a pasture in Longpoint, he was shocked to discover that someone had taken them during the past day or so. Little did Vacek know, the rustling was just getting started within several South Central Texas counties.

Vacek had 14 cows, 14 calves, and a bull stolen, and … like other ranchers in the same situation … has waited to see what authorities could find out about his cattle.

On June 21, investigators said they had “cracked a cattle-rustling operation that stretched across eight counties and claimed 289 head of cattle.” Some of these recovered cattle belonged to Vacek.

According to reports, and a confession, the alleged rustler is a Brazoria County cattle rancher who comes from a ranching family and knew just what to do.

While Vacek is delighted to have his cows — all 14 — back in his possession. His 14 calves and Charlaois bull have not been recovered. Vacek said the unreturned cattle’s value is at least $12,000, so he is eager to make sure the rustler makes restitution to him and the other ranchers whose animals were taken.

“It seems to me if he (rustler) sold my calves, he should be ordered to make restitution,” noted Vacek.

Meanwhile, it’s a “wait and see” as to what happens with the rustler, who at press time, is facing arrest following his confession to investigators. 

In the meantime, Vacek sid he plans to keep a closer eye on his herd in the future. It’s a hard lesson to learn, and one that often is unavoidable, but one that should be paid for by the rustler, he concluded.