Suspected cattle rustlers charged

Two East Hawkesbury, Ont., residents have been charged after cows that disappeared from a western Quebec farm turned up for auction in Ontario.

According to HawkesburyOPP, 16 heifers were stolen early in the early morning hours of Sept.19 from a farm near Mont Laurier, Que., on Sept. 26. Three of the animals later turned up for sale at the Livestock Exchange Auction in VankleekHill, Ont.

An investigation led OPP toa property on Aberdeen Road in North GlengarryTownship, where they found 10 more stolen cows.

"Itwas determined that a pasture was rented for the stolen livestock, and that the animals were neglected and had lost a lot of weight," according to the release. The owner estimated each heifer had lost about 135 kilograms, according to OPP.

2 suspects charged

Earlier this month, OPP charged a 34-year-oldEast Hawkesburyman with two counts each of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, and causing damage or injury to an animal by failing to provide suitable or adequate food, water, care or shelter.

He's also charged with theft under $5,000.

A 53-year-oldEast Hawkesbury Township woman was also arrested andcharged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.

The 13 cows, estimated to be worth more than$26,000, were returned to their owner, but the whereabouts of the remaining three animals is unknown.

They have the brand "IJ" stamped on their backs, OPP said.Anyone with informationis asked to contact HawkesburyOPP.