Grafton Man Charged with Stealing Wagyu Cattle Genetics

A Grafton man has been charged with the theft of wagyu cattle semen and embryos from his employer on the state’s north coast.

File image of Wagyu cattle

Investigation Background

In 2024, investigators from the Rural Crime Prevention Team established Strike Force Newbury following allegations of fraud and stolen genetics from a wagyu cattle farm in Grafton.

After extensive inquiries, search warrants were executed in March 2025 at various properties, including Southgate, Elland, Mylneford, and Belmore River, where more than 500 cattle were mustered and inspected.

Allegations Against the Suspect

During the investigation, authorities were informed that a 34-year-old man was instructed to sell 200 recipient and empty cattle on behalf of his employer. However, it is alleged that he sold 45 fullblood wagyu cows and heifers without authorization.

Additionally, investigators claim the man utilized a third-party buyer to acquire 114 head of cattle, including the 45 fullblood specimens, for personal gain at a significantly reduced price, resulting in an estimated financial advantage of almost $100,000.

Authorities also allege that the suspect stole embryos, semen, and other cattle. A search warrant led to the discovery of a genetic liquid nitrogen storage tank containing stolen cattle semen valued at $100,000.

Veterinary Involvement and Charges

During the same investigation, it was revealed that the man engaged a 48-year-old local veterinarian to treat six sick wagyu bulls. However, the vet allegedly produced falsified documentation claiming treatment was provided without actual care, leading to the death of at least two bulls.

The veterinarian was arrested on June 23, 2025, at a clinic in Grafton and faces multiple charges, including aggravated animal cruelty and perverting the course of justice. He has been granted conditional bail pending a court appearance on August 11, 2025.

The 34-year-old suspect was arrested the following day and has been charged with 20 offenses, which include:

• Dishonestly obtaining financial advantage by deception.
• Dishonestly obtaining property by deception (two counts).
• Stealing cattle (two counts).
• Taking and using cattle belonging to others (three counts).
• Stealing property as a clerk/servant (six counts).
• Committing an act of aggravated cruelty upon an animal.
• Actions intending to pervert the course of justice.
• Failing to comply with mandatory measures (three counts).
• Failure to comply with notice under this section.

He has also been granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear in Grafton Local Court on August 4, 2025.

Continuing Investigations

Investigations under Strike Force Newbury are ongoing.

Source: NSW Police