The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Livestock Brand Commission, along with the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Department, arrested two men in connection with the theft of at least two swine on private property in the community of Sandy Lake.

Twenty-six year old Chester Franklin of Jonesville and a 17-year-old alleged accomplice were arrested and booked into the Catahoula Parish Jail Dec. 31. They are charged with two counts of theft of livestock, one count of criminal trespassing and one count of aggravated cruelty to animals.

The meat from one of the pigs was recovered and one animal was returned to its owner.

“For many people in the state of Louisiana, farming is their livelihood and the way they feed their families. The Brand Commission is charged with protecting their property and working closely with law enforcement to bring criminals to justice,” said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M.

If convicted, the suspects face jail time and/or a fine.