The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau (MALTB) recovered two stolen horses, with an estimated value of $11,000, in Scott County on Friday, April 19, 2024. This investigation led to the arrests of Tyrese Walton, Quentonio Odom and Charles Gatewood.
The initial report was taken by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, stating two horses were stolen from Scott County at the end of March. The MALTB was then notified on April 4.
The owner of the stolen horses posted on social media asking for the return of his horses. This social media post led to the victim receiving two phone calls regarding the location of his horses. The victim notified MALTB investigators of the information he received. Following the social media tip, investigators were able to question suspects and gather additional information on the whereabouts of the location of the horses.
When the horses were found, one of them had a brand that was attempted to be burned off. After further investigation, it was learned to be Quentonio Odom who was responsible for the burnt brand.
MALTB Investigators learned oneof the horses found had a brand that was attempted to be burned off.
This investigation led to the arrest of three individuals: Tyrese Walton, Quentonio Odom and Charles Gatewood. All three individuals were charged with Livestock Theft which is a grand larceny charge. Additionally, Odom was charged with altering a brand and animal cruelty. Gatewood was charged with animal cruelty in a separate incident. Walton and Gatewood each had a bond set at $25,000. Odom’s bond was set at $50,000.
MALTB and Scott County Sheriff’s Office worked closely together on the recovery of these two horses. MALTB Director Dean Barnard would like to thank his investigators, Scott County Sheriff Mike Lee and the Scott County deputies for their continued efforts in the recovery of these stolen horses.
The Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau, the law enforcement division of the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, enforces state laws pertaining to the theft of cattle, horses, swine, poultry, fish, farm equipment, chemicals, timber and all other farm or agriculture-related crimes.
