Richland County Man Sentenced Two 2 Years In Cattle Theft Case

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WAHPETON, N.D. — A Richland County man is headed to prison for stealing more than 100 head of cattle.

The cattle have never been found.

Daniel Dockter, 44, of Colfax, North Dakota, is accused of stealing nearly 150 cattle worth more than $650,000 over the past few years through a cattle business he operated.

In asking for the harsh sentence, prosecutors admitted the case didn't include a violent crime, but rather a property crime that still had real consequences for the victims.

"I would just like to know what really happened to my cows," said rancher Dick Ramsdall.

"This has affected me in ways that go far beyond financial loss. These animals represent years of hard work, investment and dedication to my livelihood," said Steven Anderson, another rancher.

Dockter was initially charged in 2024 and sentenced to probation. However, prosecutors alleged in court on Thursday, July 30, that Dockter continued to steal cows.

"I think the punishment has to warrant the crime and that's where we need to even this out," said rancher Paul Boyle.

Dockter's lawyer said this was not a fraud scheme, but that his client was just trying to finance a failing business. The cattle were never located despite a multi-state search.

On Thursday, Dockter pleaded guilty to two felony counts of theft.

"I truly do apologize for impacting the victims, it was not my intentions, I've taken responsibility for it and I'm truly sorry," Dockter said in court.

Prosecutors asked for three years in prison to send a message to the industry that actions such as Dockter's won't be tolerated. Dockter's lawyer argued for electronic home monitoring so he could earn money to pay restitution.

Dockter was sentenced to two years. He was also ordered to pay nearly $350,000 in restitution.

"It was a bunch of crap, he should have got more," Ramsdall said.

Dockter was ordered to surrender to the jail by noon Friday, July 31.