On February 26, the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry’s (LDAF) livestock brand inspectors arrested Meagan Breanna Byrd, age 35, on a warrant for two counts of theft of livestock. The arrest followed an investigation that began in August 2025 when a public livestock market in St. Landry Parish reported that six horses, valued at about $7,200, were purchased under fraudulent conditions on two occasions.
Investigators allege that the purchases were made without proper payment as required by law. As a result of the investigation, warrants for two counts of theft of livestock were issued for three suspects involved in the case. While Byrd has been arrested after surrendering to authorities and booked without incident, two other individuals remain wanted and their arrests are pending. The bond for Byrd has not yet been set, and the stolen livestock have not been recovered.
“All persons accused of any crime are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law,” stated LDAF officials.
The Livestock Brand Commission maintains a 24-hour Crimestoppers hotline at (800) 558-9741 for reporting thefts or other agriculture-related crimes.
The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry provides regulatory enforcement related to food safety and animal health across Louisiana. Its responsibilities include supporting farmers, consumers, and industry stakeholders throughout the state through various programs aimed at protecting agriculture, forestry, soil conservation resources, and managing forest health initiatives (official website). Mike Strain serves as commissioner of the department (official website).
