Livestock Crimes Unit

 

Mission

The mission of the Sheriff’s Office Livestock Crimes Unit (LCU) is to assist the Arizona Department of Agriculture’s Animal Services Division with investigating cases of cruelty, abandonment and stray livestock in Yuma County.
 

About the LCU

The Sheriff’s Office Livestock Crimes Unit (LCU) was formed in 2012 due to an increase in livestock related calls for service. The Arizona Revised Statutes §3-1201 defines “Livestock” as cattle, equine, sheep, goats and swine, except feral pig.

Each year since the LCU was formed, they have responded to over 100 livestock calls annually ranging from stray or loose livestock, to large animal rescues, and cruelty cases.

The LCU members have received specialized training in the areas of animal abuse, handling and rescue. They are also trained in large animal rescues from dangerous or life threatening situations, such as natural disasters, traffic collisions and livestock trapped in bodies of water. Most of the LCU members are horse owners and have an array of knowledge and experience that is beneficial to the Mission.

The LCU consists of a Patrol Sergeant, Deputies and members of the Sheriff’s Posse.

Click link to watch YouTube video: Livestock Crimes Unit

 
Livestock Crimes Unit F.A.Q.
 This section has been created to answer common questions about livestock and animal abuse. If you need further assistance, please call (928) 783-4427.

Please click on the links below to view the FAQ answers
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What constitutes animal cruelty in Arizona?
There are a number of things that could constitute animal cruelty. The Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) 13-2910 defines animal cruelty as intentionally, knowingly or recklessly subjecting any animal to cruel neglect, cruel mistreatment, abandonment, or the infliction of any unnecessary physical injury to an animal. ARS 13-2910 also states any person who intentionally, knowingly or recklessly fails to provide medical attention necessary to prevent protracted suffering to any animal under the person's custody or control is guilty of animal cruelty as well.

If I suspect abuse against an animal, who do I contact?
If you believe that an animal (other than livestock) is being subjected to cruel or neglectful treatment, contact the Sheriff’s Office at (928) 783-4427.

If you believe that a livestock animal is being subjected to cruel or neglectful treatment, you can contact the Sheriff’s Office at (928) 783-4427 or email the Livestock Crimes Unit at Livestockunit@ycso.yumacountyaz.gov.

For all inquiries regarding the health and welfare of animals such as dogs or cats, contact:

YUMA COUNTY ANIMAL CONTROL
2200 W. 28th Street
Yuma, AZ 85364
Tel: (928) 341-8800
Office Hours: 8:00 AM-5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
Website: Yuma County Animal Control

Other Animal Control Agencies

If you live in an incorporated City or Town, contact their Animal Control programs. Their contact information is listed below.

CITY OF YUMA ANIMAL CONTROL SERVICES UNIT
Tel: (928) 373-4795
Hours of Operation: 7:30 AM-9:00 PM, 7 days a week including weekends and holidays
Website: Yuma PD Animal Control Services Unit

CITY OF SAN LUIS ANIMAL CONTROL DIVISION
Tel: (928) 341-2420
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 9:00 AM-8:00 PM; Saturday 9:00 AM-5:00 PM
Website: San Luis PD Animal Control Division

CITY OF SOMERTON ANIMAL CONTROL
Tel: (928) 722-7399
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 7:00 AM-6:00 PM; Weekends or after-hours, call (928) 722-7300
Website: Somerton Animal Control Division


Is shade required in Arizona for livestock?
Shade is not a requirement under Arizona law; however, it is recommended.

Does the Sheriff’s Office do brand inspections?
No, the Sheriff’s Office does not conduct brand inspections. For information regarding brand inspections, contact the Arizona Department of Agriculture Animal Services Division:

Arizona Department of Agriculture
Animal Services Division
Livestock Services
1688 W. Adams Street
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Tel: (623) 445-0281
Website: https://agriculture.az.gov/animals/animal-services-inspections/livestock-inspections


If I have a horse and want to give it away, is there a rescue facility in Yuma County that I can contact?
Presently, there are no known “rescue” organizations in Yuma County. However, there are rescue facilities outside of Yuma County that may be able to help.

If you wish to discuss your options, contact the Sheriff’s Office at (928) 783-4427 and leave a message for the Livestock Crimes Unit or send an email to livestockunit@ycso.yumacountyaz.gov and a LCU member will contact you.

 

LCU Contact Information

If you have any questions regarding livestock and/or animal cruelty or you would like to email the LCU, contact:

YCSO Livestock Crimes Unit
141 S. 3rd Avenue
Tel: (928) 783-4427
Email: livestockunit@ycso.yumacountyaz.gov

 
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