Charlotte County deputies looking for fence-cutting vandals who let water buffalo escape
Charlotte County deputies are asking for help in identifying the person or persons who cut a pasture fence, allowing water buffalo to escape and escapade across U.S. 41 near Tuckers Grade during rush hour last Friday.
Deputies were called to the area of Scham Road, Alligator Street and U.S. 41 in south Punta Gorda for a report of loose cattle on June 21. It was determined someone cut a fence at 26385 Scham Road.
The fence was cut in two places each within 100 yards of each other for the purpose of allowing the several Asian Water Buffalo contained inside the property to escape, officials said. At one point, the escaped buffalo crossed U.S. 41 during rush hour near the intersection with Tuckers Grade. Deputies were able to contain the buffalo in a nearby cattle field.
Florida State Statute 810.115 makes it a felony to break, cut, or injure a fence containing any animals.
Officials warn that if you see loose cattle on the roadways, to call the appropriate law enforcement agencies. If you are not trained in the handling of loose cattle, do not approach any of these animals.
If anyone has any information about who may have cut the fence to contact the Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Detective Justin Treworgy at (941) 505-4638 (direct office number). If he is not in the office, please leave a message and he will return your call.
Source: Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office