United States Department of Agriculture

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration

News Release Archive 2015

Contents

FEDERAL GRAIN INSPECTION SERVICE

PACKERS AND STOCKYARDS PROGRAM

GIPSA Settles a Case with H&H Cattle Services, LLC Resulting in a $3,000 Penalty����������������������������� 5

GIPSA Settles a Case with J2 Marketing, LLC, d/b/a J2 Cattle Resulting in a $5,300 Penalty���������������� 6

C. Matthew Fariss, and Duane D. Gilliam Assessed a $10,000 Civil Penalty ������������������������������������������

GIPSA Alleges Russell Ortmeier, d/b/a Austen Farms Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act ��������� 8

GIPSA Alleges Don Forester And Athens Commission Company, Inc. Violated the PSA������������������������ 

GIPSA Settles a Case with Joe Fritz Resulting in a $500 Penalty ��������������������������������������������������������� 10

GIPSA Settles a Case with Open Range Beef, LLC Resulting in a $4,500 Penalty��������������������������������11

GIPSA Alleges Robert Snow, d/b/a Snow Cattle Co. Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act������������ 1

Tyson Hog Markets, Inc., d/b/a Heinhold Hog Markets Assessed a $15,000 Civil Penalty�������������������� 1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Dearth Livestock, Inc. Resulting in a $3,000 Penalty ��������������������������������� 1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Dyersville Sales Company, Inc. Resulting in a $1,800 Penalty������������������� 1

El Paso Cattle II, LP, John K. Hudgens, and James D. Hudgens, Assessed a $15,000 Civil Penalty ��� 

GIPSA Alleges SIG International Iowa, Inc. Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act ������������������������� 1

Ashville Stockyard, Inc., Bradley Plunkett and Tilda Plunkett Assessed a $8,000 Civil Penalty ������������ 1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Charles J. Helmick Resulting in a $1,300 Penalty �������������������������������������� 2

Don Forester and Athens Commission Company, Inc. Assessed a $4,000 Civil Penalty����������������������� 2

GIPSA Settles a Case with Timmy McQueary, d/b/a McQueary Cattle Resulting in a $1,125 Penalty �� 22

Michael Brenton Wagner Has Been Assessed a $10,000 Civil Penalty ������������������������������������������������� 23

GIPSA Alleges Euclid Stockyards and Jeremy T. Gorham, Euclid Stockyards Violated the PSA ���������� 2
GIPSA Alleges H&P Cattle, LLC, d/b/a Gowan Stockyards Violated the PSA���������������������������������������� 25

GIPSA Settles a Case with Mark Holder, Resulting in a $4,000 Penalty������������������������������������������������ 26

GIPSA Alleges Nancy Schrock, d/b/a Midwest Exchange Regional Stockyards Violated the PSA�������� 27

GIPSA Settles a Case with Robert J. Jones, Robert W. Jones, Resulting in a $4,125 Penalty ������������� 

GIPSA Settles a Case with Tim Lee Moore Resulting in a $3,000 Penalty ������������������������������������������� 29

GIPSA Alleges Well Bred Farms, Inc. Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act ���������������������������������� 3

GIPSA Settles a Case with Brian Gader, Gader Cattle Company Resulting in a $2,750 Penalty ���������� 31

GIPSA Settles a Case with MDM Meat Co. Resulting in a $5,000 Penalty ������������������������������������������� 3

GIPSA Settles a Case with R&C Livestock, LLC and Timothy R. Reedy Resulting in $5,500 Penalty �� 3

GIPSA Settles a Case with Ryan Van Zee, d/b/a Van Zee Feeder Cattle Resulting in a $500 Penalty � 34

GIPSA Settles a Case with Chester K. Webb Resulting in a $1,200 Penalty����������������������������������������� 3

Jacob Thompson, Is Prohibited From Engaging in Business for Which Registration Is Required ��������� 36

GIPSA Settles a Case with Michael Austin Hand Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty ����������������������������������� 37

Nancy Schrock, d/b/a Midwest Exchange Regional Stockyards Assessed a $5,500 Civil Penalty ������� 38

GIPSA Settles a Case with Roger and Judy King, Resulting in a $500 Penalty ������������������������������������ 39

GIPSA Settles a Case with Richard H. and Janet I. Smyer, Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty ������������������� 

Well Bred Farms, Inc. Has Been Assessed a $32,000 Civil Penalty������������������������������������������������������ 4

GIPSA Alleges Brack D. Briscoe Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act������������������������������������������� 4

GIPSA Alleges Linton Livestock Auction Sales, Inc. Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act������������� 4

GIPSA Settles a Case with Loy Brothers Livestock Market, Inc., Resulting in a $2,000 Penalty����������� 4

GIPSA Alleges Randy Deaton, d/b/a Deaton Livestock Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act ������� 45

SIG International Iowa, Inc. Have Been Assessed a $50,000 Civil Penalty ������������������������������������������� 4

GIPSA Alleges Birdsboro Kosher Farm Corporation Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act ������������ 47

GIPSA Settles a Case with Loy Brothers Stockyards, Inc., Resulting in a $3,000 Penalty �������������������� 4

GIPSA Settles a Case with Mike Guazdausky Resulting in a $3,500 Penalty ��������������������������������������� 49

GIPSA Settles a Case with Paul Lopes Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty �������������������������������������������������� 50
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 3

GIPSA Settles a Case with Pork Data, Inc. Resulting in a $1,350 Penalty �������������������������������������������� 5

GIPSA Settles a Case with Loy Brothers Cattle, Inc., Resulting in a $2,000 Penalty ���������������������������� 5

GIPSA Settles a Case with Peter De Luz Resulting in a $2,500 Penalty ����������������������������������������������� 53

GIPSA Settles a Case with Weltin Meat Packing, Inc. Resulting in a $1,750 Penalty ������������������������� 5

GIPSA Settles a Case with Concord Fresh Meat Processing Resulting in a $2,125 Penalty ���������������� 55

GIPSA Alleges Hubert Dennis Edwards Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act ������������������������������� 56

GIPSA Settles a Case with Jon Smith Resulting in a $750 Penalty ������������������������������������������������������� 57

GIPSA Settles a Case with Lynch Livestock, Inc. Resulting in a $2,000 Penalty ���������������������������������� 5

GIPSA Alleges Kenneth L. Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker Violated the PSA����������������������������� 

Linton Livestock Auction Sales, Inc. Has Been Assessed a $11,000 Civil Penalty �������������������������������� 6

Birdsboro Kosher Farm Corporation Has Been Assessed a $34,000 Civil Penalty ������������������������������� 61

Jacob Thompson, Jacob Thompson Cattle Co. Prohibited from Registering with PSP for Five Years �� 6

GIPSA Alleges KMS Cattle, Inc., and Kyle D. Sorrels Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act ������� 

Eastern Livestock Company, LLC’s Registration Has Been Suspended for 10 Years ��������������������������� 64

Thomas P. Gibson prohibited from Registering under the Packers and Stockyards Act for 10 Years���� 6

H&P Cattle, LLC, d/b/a Gowan Stockyards Has Been Assessed a $18,000 Civil Penalty��������������������� 66

Merlin L. Garver, Inc. and Merlin Jan Garver Have Been Ordered to Cease and Desist ����������������������� 

GIPSA Settles a Case with Pat & Carolyn Gully, Gully Enterprises, Inc. Resulting in a $700 Penalty��� 6

GIPSA Settles a Case with Chester D. Coleman Resulting in a $5,000 Penalty ���������������������������������� 6

GIPSA Settles a Case with Amy Knight, d/b/a Urbana Stockyards Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty ������� 70

GIPSA Requests Info on Market Agencies Selling on Commission; Purchases from Consignment������ 71

GIPSA Settles a Case with Stephen G. Manieri, Resulting in a $1,050 Penalty ���������������������������������� 7

Euclid Stockyards and Jeremy T. Gorham, Assessed a $20,000 Civil Penalty �������������������������������������� 7

GIPSA Alleges Matt Goosen, Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act������������������������������������������������ 74

Robert Snow, d/b/a Snow Cattle Has Been Assessed a $31,000 Civil Penalty ������������������������������������� 75

GIPSA Alleges Gary Wedel Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act �������������������������������������������������� 76
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 4

Kenneth L. Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker Are Suspended for Five Years��������������������������������� 

GIPSA Settles a Case with Arnold Kasmiersky, Jr. Resulting in a $200 Penalty������������������������������������ 7

GIPSA Settles a Case with Johnnie Andrew Fisher Resulting in a $2,750 Penalty ������������������������������� 79

GIPSA Alleges R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, Leah Davis, and George Davis, Jr., Violated the PSA�����

KMS Cattle, Inc. and Kyle D. Sorrels Have Been Assessed a $8,000 Civil Penalty ������������������������������ 

Blue Horse Company, LLC and Shawn Breitsprecher Assessed a $29,000 Civil Penalty ��������������������� 83

GIPSA Alleges Richard Reece Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act���������������������������������������������� 84

GIPSA Settles a Case with Roanoke-Hollins Stockyard Resulting in a $500 Penalty���������������������������� 85

GIPSA Settles a Case with Daniel B. May and La Vaca Cattle Co Resulting in a $2,000 Penalty ������� 8

GIPSA Settles a Case with Shamrock Livestock Market Resulting in a $300 Penalty ������������������������� 87

GIPSA Settles a Case with Alma Livestock Resulting in a $300 Penalty ����������������������������������������������� 88

GIPSA Settles a Case with Joseph (Jody) Pimentel Resulting in a $2,125 Penalty ������������������������� 89

GIPSA Settles a Case with Paul Hight (Paul Hight Cattle, LLC) Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty ������� 90

GIPSA Settles a Case with Topeka Livestock Auction Resulting in a $2,500 Penalty���������������������������� 91

GIPSA Settles a Case with Dallas Dewees, Foy Reynolds Cattle Co. Resulting in a $1,200 Penalty ��� 9

GIPSA Settles a Case with Steve Lueck and Fred Lueck, Resulting in a $5,000 Penalty ��������������������� 93

GIPSA Settles a Case with Blue Hill Livestock Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty��������������������������������������� 94

GIPSA Settles a Case with Dennis Dowers Resulting in a $1,875 Penalty ������������������������������������������� 95

GIPSA Settles a Case with Glenn L. Tefft Resulting in a $2,500 Penalty����������������������������������������������� 9

Lonnie Martin to Pay A $12,000 Fine for Not Filing Annual Reports with USDA ���������������������������������� 97

GIPSA Settles a Case with Tecumseh Livestock Auction Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty ���������������� 98

Randy Deaton, d/b/a Deaton Livestock Is Suspended as a Registrant for Five Years ������������������������� 99

Russell Ortmeier, Is Prohibited from Registering under the P&S Act for Five Years ���������������������������� 100
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 5

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 03-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with H&H Cattle Services, LLC Resulting in a $3,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

H&H Cattle Services, LLC, Scottsburg, Va. – waived its right to a hearing, entered into a

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $3,000 after GIPSA found that it failed 

to pay, when due, for livestock and issued insufficient funds checks.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 6

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 04-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with J2 Marketing, LLC, d/b/a J2 Cattle Resulting in a $5,300 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

J2 Marketing, LLC, d/b/a J2 Cattle, Chandler, Ariz. – waived its right to a hearing, entered

into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $5,300 after GIPSA found that it 

failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 7

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 01-1

Lynchburg Livestock Market, Inc., C. Matthew Fariss, and Duane D. Gilliam Have Been Assessed 

a $10,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2015 – On December 22, 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a consent 

decision with Lynchburg Livestock Market, Inc. (Lynchburg), C. Matthew Fariss (Fariss), an

Duane D. Gilliam (Gilliam), Lynchburg, Va. Lynchburg, Fariss, and Gilliam have been ordere

to cease and desist from:

• failing to properly maintain and use their custodial account; and

• selling livestock in commerce and failing to transmit or deliver to the consignor the net 

proceeds received from the sale within the prescribed time period

They have also been assessed a $10,000 civil penalty

The consent decision resolves a complaint that was filed against Lynchburg, Fariss, and 

Gilliam on November 20, 2014

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 8

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 02-1

GIPSA Alleges Russell Ortmeier, d/b/a Austen Farms Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Russell Ortmeier 

(Ortmeier), doing business as Austen Farms, Omaha, Neb.

• bought and sold livestock in commerce without registering with the U.S. Secretar

(Secretary) of Agriculture or maintaining an adequate bond or bond equivalent as required 

by the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act;

• issued checks in payment for livestock which were returned unpaid by the bank because 

Ortmeier failed to have and maintain sufficient funds on deposit; and

• failed to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock

GIPSA filed a complaint against Ortmeier on November 12, 2014. The complaint can be 

found on the GIPSA website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegat

are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Ortmeier may be ordered to cease and desist from 

violating the P&S Act, suspended, and assessed a civil penalty

Ortmeier was engaged in the business of a dealer buying and selling livestock in commerce; 

a dealer within the meaning of and subject to the provisions of the P&S Act; and is not 

registered with the Secretary

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 9

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 07-1

GIPSA Alleges Don Forester And Athens Commission Company, Inc. Violated the Packers and 

Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Don Forester 

(Forester) and Athens Commission Company, Inc. (Athens Commission), Athens, Texas

• failed to maintain and properly use their custodial account;

• had custodial account shortages in that they withdrew payment other than net proceeds 

to the consignor or shipper, or to any person that the market agency knows is entitled to 

payment; failed to pay lawful charges against consignment of livestock; failed to obtain any 

funds due the market agency as compensation for its services; and failed to reimburse the 

custodial account for bank charges for overdraft fees and returned check fees

GIPSA filed a complaint against Forester and Athens Commission on November

25, 2014. The complaint can be found on the GIPSA website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/

enforcement.aspx. If the allegations are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Forester an

Athens Commission may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the Packers and 

Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and assessed a civil penalty

Athens Commission under the direction, management and control of Forester was engaged 

in the business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on a commission basis and 

is registered with the Secretary of Agriculture

Forester is a 50% owner of Athens Commission and responsible for the day-today direction, 

management and control of Athens Commission, including the acts and practices referred to 

in this complaint

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 10

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 09-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Joe Fritz Resulting in a $500 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism to 

quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act

GIPSA may offer an alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering 

into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Joe Fritz, Sikeston, Mo. – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement,

and agreed to pay a penalty of $500 after GIPSA found that he had false or misleading 

records in connection with activities subject to the P&S Act

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 11

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 08-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Open Range Beef, LLC Resulting in a $4,500 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Open Range Beef, LLC, Gordon, Neb. – waived its right to a hearing, entered into a

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $4,500 after GIPSA found that it failed 

to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 12

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 06-1

GIPSA Alleges Robert Snow, d/b/a Snow Cattle Co. Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Robert Snow 

(Snow), doing business as Snow Cattle Co., Garvin, Okla

• engaged in the business of a market agency buying and/or selling livestock in commerce 

on a commission basis or a dealer buying and selling livestock in commerce without 

maintaining a bond or bond equivalent;

• purchased livestock in commerce, and failed to pay, when due, the full purchase price for 

the livestock;

• did not meet the requirements in the Code of Federal Regulations for purchasing livestock 

on credit;

• purchased livestock in commerce, and failed to pay the full purchase price for the 

livestock;

• issued checks for livestock that were returned unpaid; and

• failed to keep and maintain records which fully and correctly disclosed all the transactions 

involved in their business

GIPSA filed a complaint against Snow on November 20, 2014. The complaint can be found 

on the GIPSA website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations

admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Snow may be ordered to cease and desist from 

violating the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and assessed a civil penalty
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 13

Snow was engaged in the business of a dealer buying and selling livestock in commerce 

and a market agency buying livestock on a commission basis in commerce; is sole owner of 

Snow, doing business as Snow Cattle Co. and is responsible for the direction, management,

and control of Snow, doing business as Snow Cattle Co.; and is registered with the Secretary

of Agriculture

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 14

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 05-1

Tyson Hog Markets, Inc., d/b/a Heinhold Hog Markets Has Been Assessed a $15,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 15, 2015 – On December 11, 2014, the U.S. Department 

Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a consent 

decision with Tyson Hog Markets, Inc. (Tyson), doing business as Heinhold Hog Markets,

Dakota Dunes, S.

Tyson has been ordered to cease and desist from:

• falsifying scale tickets for livestock;

• issuing invoices to buyers that show false weights; and

• issuing false or inaccurate accountings to sellers of livestock

Tyson was further ordered to maintain complete and accurate scale records which correctly 

show the weights of livestock actually weighed by Tyson. Tyson has also been assessed a

$15,000 civil penalty and will make restitution to livestock buyers and sellers

The consent decision resolves a complaint that was filed the same day against Tyson.

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 15

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 11-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Dearth Livestock, Inc. Resulting in a $3,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Dearth Livestock, Inc., Blanchardville, Wis. – waived its right to a hearing, entered into 

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $3,000 after GIPSA found that it 

purchased livestock on a reduced carcass weight

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 16

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 12-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Dyersville Sales Company, Inc. Resulting in a $1,800 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Dyersville Sales Company, Inc., Dyersville, Iowa – waived its right to a hearing, entered into a

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,800 after GIPSA found that it had a 

key employee purchasing livestock out of consignment

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 17

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 10-1

El Paso Cattle II, LP, John K. Hudgens, and James D. Hudgens, Have Been Assessed a $15,000 

Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, Jan. 22, 2015 – On December 5, 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a consent decision 

with El Paso Cattle II, LP, who also does business under the name of El Paso Cattle I, LLC 

and El Paso Company, Inc., John K. Hudgens, and James D. Hudgens, Canutillo, Te

El Paso Cattle II, LP, John K. Hudgens, and James D. Hudgens have been ordered to ceas

and desist from purchasing livestock in commerce and failing to pay, when due, the full 

purchase price for such livestock

El Paso Cattle II, LP, John K. Hudgens, and James D. Hudgens have been assessed 

$15,000 civil penalty jointly and severally

The consent decision resolves a complaint that was filed against El Paso Cattle II, LP, John 

K. Hudgens, and James D. Hudgens on December 3, 20

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 18

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 13-1

GIPSA Alleges SIG International Iowa, Inc. Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that SIG International 

Iowa, Inc. (SIG), Boyden, Iowa

• failed to pay, when due, for livestock;

• failed to pay on the actual live weights, failed to note the actual weights of the livestock, 

and paid based on estimated live weights;

• entered into credit agreements with sellers of livestock which failed to contain a valid trust 

waiver; and

• gave false check dates to give the impression of prompt payment

GIPSA filed a complaint against SIG on January 5, 2015. The complaint can be found on the 

GIPSA website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.apx . If the allegations are admit

or proven in an oral hearing, SIG may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the 

Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act and/or assessed a civil penalty

SIG was engaged in the business of a packer

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 19

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 14-1

Ashville Stockyard, Inc., Bradley Plunkett and Tilda Plunkett Have Been Assessed a $8,000 Civil 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 4, 2015 – On Jan. 9, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Gr

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a consent decision 

with Ashville (Ashville) Stockyard, Inc., Bradley Plunkett and Tilda Plunkett, Ashville, Al

Ashville, Bradley and Tilda Plunkett have been ordered to cease and desist from failing to 

properly maintain their Custodial Account for Shippers’ Proceeds in strict conformity with the 

Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act and Regulations

Ashville was suspended as a registrant under the P&S Act for a period of 14 days

They have also been assessed an $8,000 civil penalty. Additionally, Ashville was suspended

as a registration under the P&S Act for a period of 14 days. However, this period of

suspension has been held in abeyance provided Ashville maintains compliance with the 

terms of the Consent Decision and Order

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 20

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 16-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Charles J. Helmick Resulting in a $1,300 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 4, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Charles J. Helmick, Buckhannon, W.Va. – waived his right to a hearing, entered into

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,300 after GIPSA found that he failed 

to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 21

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 17-1

Don Forester and Athens Commission Company, Inc. Have Been Assessed a $4,000 Civil 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 4, 2015 – On Jan. 29, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Gr

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a consent decision 

with Don Forester (Forester) and Athens Commission (Athens Commission) Company, Inc.,

Athens, Texas

Forester and Athens Commission have been ordered to cease and desist from failing to 

properly maintain and use their custodial account

They have also been assessed a $4,000 civil penalty

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 22

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 15-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Timmy McQueary, d/b/a McQueary Cattle Resulting in a $1,125 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 4, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Timmy McQueary, d/b/a McQueary Cattle Russell Springs, Ky. – waived his right to a

hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,125 after 

GIPSA found that he failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 23

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 18-1

Michael Brenton Wagner Has Been Assessed a $10,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12, 2015 – On December 30, 2014, the United States Department of

Agriculture entered into a settlement agreement with Michael Brenton Wagner (Wagner), 

Stephenville, Texas, which became effective and final on January 29, 2015.

Wagner was ordered to cease and desist from:

• engaging business in any capacity for which bonding is required under the Packers and 

Stockyards (P&S) Act and the Regulations, without filing and maintaining an adequate 

bond or its equivalent; and

• engaging in business in any capacity for which bonding is required under the P&S Act 

without first becoming properly registered under the P&S Act.

Wagner was also assessed a $10,000 civil penalty

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 24

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 20-1

GIPSA Alleges Euclid Stockyards, Inc., d/b/a Euclid Stockyards and Jeremy T. Gorham, d/b/a 

Euclid Stockyards Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Euclid Stockyards, 

Inc., (Euclid), doing business as Euclid Stockyards and Jeremy T. Gorham (Gorham), doin

business as Euclid Stockyards, Ontario, Calif.

• failed to properly maintain its custodial account endangering the faithful and prompt 

accounting of shippers’ proceeds and the payment due the owners or consignors of 

livestock; and

• failed to deposit in the custodial account, within the time prescribed by the regulations, 

an amount equal to the proceeds receivable for the sales of consigned livestock creating 

custodial account shortages

GIPSA filed a complaint against Euclid and Gorham on January 8, 2015. The complaint can 

be found on the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegati

are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Euclid and Gorham may be ordered to cease and 

desist from violating the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and assessed a civil 

penalty

Euclid, under the direction, management, and control of Gorham, was engaged in the 

business of a dealer buying and selling livestock in commerce and as a market agency

selling livestock in commerce on a commission basis and is registered with the Secretary

of Agriculture

Gorham was owner of 100% of the stock issued by Euclid; a registered agent for

Euclid; engaged in the business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on a

commission basis; and responsible for the direction, management, and control of Euclid

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 25

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 19-1

GIPSA Alleges H&P Cattle, LLC, d/b/a Gowan Stockyards Violated the Packers and Stockyards 

Act

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that H&P Cattle, LLC 

(H&P), doing business as Gowan Stockyards, Kosciusko, Miss.

• listed livestock as having been purchased under a false name, Johnny Cook, instead of 

listing Mr. Miller (an unregistered livestock dealer)

• represented that Mr. Miller had resold the livestock of H&P that he had purchased at H&P

earlier the same day when in fact Mr. Miller had not resold the livestock through the ring at

H&P and had only electronically transferred the livestock onto new purchase invoices for 

Mr. Miller’s customers

• listed purchase prices for the approximately 40 head of livestock that were higher than the 

actual purchase prices. Mr. Miller then transmitted the invoices with the marked-up price

to his customers on whose behalf Mr. Miller procured the livestock

• generated or permitted to be generated purchase invoices with false information at the 

request of Mr. Miller

• listed fabricated weights; and

• failed to keep and maintain accounts, records, and memoranda that fully and correctly 

disclosed all transactions involved in its business

GIPSA filed a complaint against H&P on January 8, 2015. The complaint can be found on 

the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations are admitted,

proven in an oral hearing, H&P may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the P&S 

Act, suspended, and/or assessed a civil penalty

H&P was engaged in the business of conducting and operating a stockyard H&P Cattle, LLC 

d/b/a Gowan Stockyards No. MS-119; engaged in the business of a market agency selling

livestock in commerce on a commission basis; and is registered with the U.S. Secretary o

Agriculture

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 26

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 23-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Mark Holder, d/b/a Mark Holder Livestock Resulting in a $4,000 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Mark Holder, d/b/a Mark Holder Livestock, Hartsville, Tenn. – waived his right to a hearing,

entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $4,000 after GIPSA 

found that he failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 27

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 21-1

GIPSA Alleges Nancy Schrock, d/b/a Midwest Exchange Regional Stockyards Violated the 

Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Nancy Schrock 

(Schrock), doing business as Midwest Exchange Regional Stockyards, Mexico, Mo.

• failed to maintain and properly reimburse the custodial account by the close of the next 

business day for employee, owner, and market purchases and by the close of the seventh 

business day for all other purchases and the payment of non-livestock expenses from the 

custodial account; and

• transferred funds from the custodial account to another business account and allowed the 

deduction of back fees from the custodial account

GIPSA filed a complaint against Schrock on January 8, 2015. The complaint can be found 

on the GIPSA website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.apx . If the allegations

admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Schrock may be ordered to cease and desist from 

violating the P&S Act, suspended, and/or assessed a civil penalty

Schrock engaged in the business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on a 

commission basis; a dealer buying or selling livestock in commerce; and is registered with 

the U.S. Secretary of Agricultu

Schrock is 100% owner and the sole officer of Midwest and formulated, directed, and 

controlled the policies, practices and activities of Midwest including the acts and practices 

alleged in this complaint

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 28

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 25-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Robert J. Jones, Robert W. Jones, d/b/a Jones Livestock Resulting in 

a $4,125 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Robert J. Jones, Robert W. Jones, d/b/a Jones Livestock, Jeromesville, Ohio – waive

their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of 

$4,125 after GIPSA found that they failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 29

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 24-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Tim Lee Moore Resulting in a $3,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism to 

quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act

GIPSA may offer an alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering 

into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Tim Lee Moore, Brooklyn, Mich. – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation

agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $3,000 after GIPSA found that he failed to pay, 

when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 30

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 22-1

GIPSA Alleges Well Bred Farms, Inc. Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, Feb. 19, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Well Bred Farms, 

Inc., Mt. Pleasant, Pa., purchased poultry and failed to pay, when due, the full purchase pri

for the poultry

GIPSA filed a complaint against Well Bred Farms, Inc. on January 8, 2015. The complaint 

can be found on the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegati

are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Well Bred Farms, Inc. may be ordered to cease

and desist from violating the P&S Act, and/or assessed a civil penalty

Well Bred Farms, Inc. was engaged in business as a live poultry dealer in the Commonwealth

of Pennsylvania

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 31

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 27-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Brian Gader, d/b/a Gader Cattle Company Resulting in a $2,750 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Brian Gader, d/b/a Gader Cattle Company, Napoleon, N.D. – waived his right to a hearing

entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $2,750 after GIPSA 

found that he failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 32

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 29-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Central Valley Property Group, Inc., d/b/a MDM Meat Co. Resulting in 

a $5,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Central Valley Property Group, Inc., d/b/a MDM Meat Co., Modesto, Calif. – waived their rig

to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $5,000 

after GIPSA found that they failed to pay, when due, for livestock and operated without a 

bond

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 33

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 26-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with R&C Livestock, LLC and Timothy R. Reedy Resulting in a $5,500 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

R&C Livestock, LLC and Timothy R. Reedy, Liberty, W.Va. – waived their right to a hearin

entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $5,500 after GIPSA 

found that they failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 34

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 28-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Ryan Van Zee, d/b/a Van Zee Feeder Cattle Resulting in a $500 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, Feb. 25, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Ryan Van Zee, d/b/a Van Zee Feeder Cattle, Sioux Center, Iowa – waived his right to a 

hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $500 after 

GIPSA found that he marked up the price of freight as a separate line item from the cost 

cattle

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 35

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 36-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Chester K. Webb Resulting in a $1,200 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Chester K. Webb, Watson, Okla. – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulatio

agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,200 after GIPSA found that he failed to pay, 

when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 36

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 34-1

Jacob Thompson, d/b/a Jacob Thompson Cattle Co. Is Prohibited From Engaging in Business 

for Which Registration Is Required

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2015 – On October 30, 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a Decision 

and Order with Jacob Thompson (Thompson), doing business as Jacob Thompson Cattle 

Co., Carthage, Texa

Thompson has been ordered to cease and desist from:

• issuing checks in payment for livestock without having and maintaining sufficient funds on 

deposit; and

• failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock

Thompson is prohibited from registering to engage in business subject to the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act for a period of 5 years effective the date of this Order. After the

expiration of the five year time period, Thompson may submit an application for registration 

along with the required bond or bond equivalent. He is prohibited from engaging in business

subject to the P&S Act in any capacity for which registration is required without being 

registered with the Packers and Stockyards Program

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 37

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 30-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Michael Austin Hand Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Michael Austin Hand, Ocilla, Ga. – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation

agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,000 after GIPSA found that he operated with 

an inadequate financial instrument.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 38

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 33-1

Nancy Schrock, d/b/a Midwest Exchange Regional Stockyards Has Been Assessed a $5,500 Civil 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2015 – On February 24, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a consent 

decision and order with Nancy Schrock (Schrock), doing business as Midwest Exchange 

Regional Stockyards, Mexico, Mo

Schrock has been ordered to cease and desist from:

• failing to properly maintain and use her custodial account; and

• misusing the custodial account by allowing the transfer of funds from the custodial account 

to another business account and allowing the deduction of bank fees from the custodial 

account that were for purposes unrelated to the paying of consignors or lawful market 

charges

Schrock has also been assessed a $5,500 civil penalty

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 39

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 32-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Roger and Judy King, Virginia Carolina Livestock Market, Inc. 

Resulting in a $500 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Roger and Judy King, Virginia Carolina Livestock Market, Inc., Danville, VA. – waived thei

right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $500 

after GIPSA found that they failed to have a scale tested

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 40

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 31-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Richard H. and Janet I. Smyer, Prescott Livestock Auction Resulting 

in a $1,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Richard H. and Janet I. Smyer, Prescott Livestock Auction, Chino Valley, Ariz. – waiv

their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of 

$1,000 after GIPSA found that they had custodial account shortages

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 41

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 35-1

Well Bred Farms, Inc. Has Been Assessed a $32,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2015 – On February 25, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a Consent 

Decision with Well Bred Farms, Inc. (Well Bred Farms), Mt. Pleasant, 

Well Bred Farms has been ordered to cease and desist from failing to pay, when due, for 

poultry purchased

Each live poultry dealer obtaining live poultry by purchase in cash shall, before the close 

of the next business day following the purchase of poultry, and each live poultry dealer 

obtaining live poultry under a poultry growing arrangement, shall, by the close of the 15th day 

following the week in which poultry is slaughtered, deliver, to the cash seller or poultry grower 

from whom such live poultry dealer obtains the poultry, the full amount due to such cash 

seller or poultry grower on account of such poultry

They have also been assessed a $32,000 civil penalty

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 42

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 40-1

GIPSA Alleges Brack D. Briscoe Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, March 11, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) found evidence that Brack D. Briscoe,

Mitchell, Ind.

• failed to pay the full purchase price for livestock purchased;

• failed to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock purchased;

• failed to have and maintain sufficient funds on deposit and available to pay checks when 

presented for payment;

• failed to keep and maintain accurate records related to the dates on which he issued 

payment checks for livestock purchases; and

• engaged in the business of a dealer buying and selling livestock in commerce without 

having and maintaining an adequate bond or bond equivalent

GIPSA filed a complaint against Brack D. Briscoe on February 2, 2015. The complaint can 

be found on the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If Brack D. Bri

admits the allegations, or GIPSA proves the allegations in an oral hearing, the Administrative 

Law Judge (ALJ) has several options. The ALJ may order Brack D. Briscoe to cease an

desist from violating the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, prohibit him from engaging in 

business in any capacity for which registration and bonding are required under the P&S Act, 

and/or assess a civil penalty

Brack D. Briscoe is engaged in business of a dealer buying and selling livestock in commerce

for his own account and the account of others; and engaged in the business of a market 

agency buying livestock on commission. He was registered with the Secretary of Agriculture

as a dealer and market agency buying livestock on commission. However, on September 22,

2013, his registration expired. He is not currently registere

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 43

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 37-1

GIPSA Alleges Linton Livestock Auction Sales, Inc. Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, March 11, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Linton Livestock 

(Linton Livestock) Auction Sales, Inc. Linton, N.D., had custodial account shortages becau

it failed to deposit in the custodial account, within the time prescribed by the regulations, an 

amount equal to the proceeds receivable for sales of consigned livestock, and due in part to 

Linton Livestock’s misuse of shippers’ funds in the custodial account to pay for bank charges

GIPSA filed a complaint against Linton Livestock on February 4, 2015. The complaint can be 

found on the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations 

admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Linton Livestock may be ordered to cease and desist 

from violating the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and/or assessed a civil 

penalty

Linton Livestock was engaged in business of a market agency selling livestock on a 

commission basis in commerce and is registered with the Secretary of Agriculture

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 44

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 39-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Loy Brothers Livestock Market, Inc., d/b/a Russell County Stockyards 

and Autic Loy, Jeff Loy, Jeron Loy, Arvis Loy, Darrell Loy and Jimmy Loy Resulting in a $2,000 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 11, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Loy Brothers Livestock Market, Inc., d/b/a Russell County Stockyards and Autic Loy, Jeff Loy,

Jeron Loy, Arvis Loy, Darrell Loy and Jimmy Loy, Russell Springs, Ky. – waived their right to

a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $2,000 after 

GIPSA found that they had custodial account shortages and misused their custodial account

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 45

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 38-1

GIPSA Alleges Randy Deaton, d/b/a Deaton Livestock Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, March 11, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Randy Deaton 

(Deaton), doing business as Deaton Livestock, London, Ky.

• failed to pay for livestock purchases;

• failed to pay, when due, for livestock purchases; and

• issued a check for livestock purchases that was returned unpaid because he did not have 

and maintain sufficient funds on deposit and available in the account upon which the check 

was drawn

GIPSA filed a complaint against Deaton on December 23, 2014. The complaint can be found 

on the GIPSA website: http://www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.html. If the allegat

are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Deaton may be ordered to cease and desist from 

violating the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and assessed a civil penalty

Deaton was engaged in the business of a dealer buying and selling livestock in commerce 

for this own account and the account of others and is registered with the Secretary of 

Agriculture

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 46

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 41-1

SIG International Iowa, Inc. Have Been Assessed a $50,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 11, 2015 – On February 25, 2015, the U.S. Department o

Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a consent 

decision with SIG International Iowa, Inc., Boyden, Iowa SIG International Iowa, Inc. ha

been ordered to cease and desist from:

• selling livestock on inaccurate weights;

• issuing invoices to buyers that show false weights;

• issuing false or inaccurate accountings to sellers of livestock; and

• entering into contract agreements that extend the term of payment beyond the statutory 

requirement without a valid trust waiver as required by regulations

SIG International Iowa, Inc. is further ordered to maintain complete and accurate records

which include records of payment and correct dates upon which checks are issued

They have also been assessed a $50,000 civil penalty

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 47

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 42-1

GIPSA Alleges Birdsboro Kosher Farm Corporation Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Birdsboro Kosher 

Farm Corporation (Birdsboro), Birdsboro, Pa.

• purchased poultry and failed to pay, when due, the full purchase price for the poultry; and

• issued checks in payment for poultry purchased which were returned because Birdsboro 

did not have and maintain sufficient funds in the account from which the funds were drawn 

to pay the checks when presented

GIPSA filed a complaint against Birdsboro on February 5, 2015. The complaint can be found 

on the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations are admitt

or proven in an oral hearing, Birdsboro may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the 

Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, and/or assessed a civil penalty

Birdsboro was engaged in business as a live poultry dealer in the Commonwealth of 

Pennsylvania

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 48

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 44-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Loy Brothers Stockyards, Inc., d/b/a Farmers Livestock Market of 

Glasgow and Autic Loy, Jeff Loy, Jeron Loy, Arvis Loy, Darrell Loy and Jimmy Loy Resulting in a 

$3,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Loy Brothers Stockyards, Inc., d/b/a Farmers Livestock Market of Glasgow and Autic Loy,

Jeff Loy, Jeron Loy, Arvis Loy, Darrell Loy and Jimmy Loy, Russell Springs, Ky. – waived

their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty 

of $3,000 after GIPSA found that they had custodial account shortages and misused their 

custodial account

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 49

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 43-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Mike Guazdausky Resulting in a $3,500 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Mika Guazdausky, Hartshorne, Okla. – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation

agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $3,500 after GIPSA found that he failed to pay, 

when due, for livestock purchases

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 50

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 45-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Paul Lopes Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Paul Lopes, Haiku, Hawaii – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation 

agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,000 after GIPSA found that he operated 

without a financial instrument.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 51

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 46-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Pork Data, Inc. Resulting in a $1,350 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 18, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Pork Data, Inc., Sioux Center, Iowa – waived their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation

agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,350 after GIPSA found that they failed to pay, 

when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 52

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 47-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Loy Brothers Cattle, Inc., d/b/a Lake Cumberland Livestock Market 

Resulting in a $2,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 24, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Loy Brothers Cattle, Inc., d/b/a Lake Cumberland Livestock Market, Somerset, Ky. – waive

their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty 

of $2,000 after GIPSA found that they had custodial account shortages and misused their 

custodial account

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 53

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 48-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Peter De Luz Resulting in a $2,500 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 24, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Peter De Luz, Honokaa, Hawaii – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation 

agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $2,500 after GIPSA found that he operated 

without a bond

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 54

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.:49-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Weltin Meat Packing, Inc. Resulting in a $1,750 Penalty

WASHINGTON, March 24, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Weltin Meat Packing, Inc., Minden, Mich. – waived their right to a hearing, entered into 

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,750 after GIPSA found that they 

failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 55

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 52-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Concord Fresh Meat Processing Resulting in a $2,125 Penalty

WASHINGTON, April 1, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Concord Fresh Meat Processing, South St. Paul, Minn. – waived their right to a hearing

entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $2,125 after GIPSA 

found that they failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 56

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 50-1

GIPSA Alleges Hubert Dennis Edwards Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, April 1, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Hubert Dennis 

Edwards (Edwards), Marana, Ariz.

• engaged in the business of a dealer without being registered with the U.S. Secretary o

Agriculture and without maintaining an adequate bond or its equivalent as required by the 

Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act and Regulations; and

• purchased livestock and failed to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock 

purchased

GIPSA filed a complaint against Edwards on January 15, 2015. The complaint can be found 

on the GIPSA website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations

admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Edwards may be ordered to cease and desist from 

violating the P&S Act, suspended, and/or assessed a civil penalty

Edwards engaged in the business of a dealer buying or selling livestock in commerce and is 

not registered with the U.S. Secretary of Agricultu

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 57

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 51-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Jon Smith Resulting in a $750 Penalty

WASHINGTON, April 1, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Jon Smith, Halls, Tenn. – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement,

and agreed to pay a penalty of $750 after GIPSA found that he had false or misleading 

records in connection with activities subject to the P&S Act

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 58

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 53-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Lynch Livestock, Inc. Resulting in a $2,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, April 1, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Lynch Livestock, Inc. Waucoma, Iowa – waived their right to a hearing, entered into a

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $2,000 after GIPSA found that they 

failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 59

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 55-1

GIPSA Alleges Kenneth L. Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker Violated the Packers and 

Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Kenneth L. Smoker,

LLC (Smoker, LLC) and Kenneth L. Smoker, Parkesburg, Pa., purchased livestock and faile

to pay the full purchase price for the livestock purchased

Smoker, LLC, under the direction, management, and control of Kenneth L. Smoker

• failed to properly use and maintain its custodial account;

• failed to deposit in the custodial account, within the time prescribed by the regulations, an 

amount equal to the proceeds receivable for sales of consigned livestock; and

• engaged in the business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on a

commission basis when their current liabilities exceeded their current assets

GIPSA filed a complaint against Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker on March 9, 2015. The 

complaint can be found on the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov.psp/enforcement.aspx. If

allegations are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker

may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, 

suspended, and/or assessed a civil penalty

Smoker, LLC was engaged in business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on 

a commission basis; and is registered with the Secretary of Agriculture; and engaged in the 

business of a livestock dealer buying and selling livestock in commerce for his own account

Kenneth L. Smoker was 100% owner of Smoker, LLC and was responsible for the direction,

management, and control of Smoker, LLC

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 60

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 54-1

Linton Livestock Auction Sales, Inc. Has Been Assessed a $11,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, April 7, 2015 – On March 31, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) entered into a Consent 

Decision and Order with Linton Livestock Auction Sales, Inc. (Linton Livestock), Linton, N

Linton Livestock has been ordered to cease and desist from:

• failing to properly maintain its custodial account for shippers’ proceeds;

• failing to deposit in the custodial account for shippers’ proceeds an amount equal to the 

proceeds receivable for sales of consigned livestock; and

• using funds received from the sale of consigned livestock for any purpose other than those 

specifically permitted in the Regulations.

They have also been assessed an $11,000 civil penalty of which $6,000 will be held in 

abeyance in accordance with the terms of the “Understanding Regarding Consent Decision” 

entered into by the parties

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 61

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 57-1

Birdsboro Kosher Farm Corporation Has Been Assessed a $34,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2015 – On April 6, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grai

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a Consent Decision with 

Birdsboro Kosher Farm Corporation (Birdsboro), Birdsboro, Pa

Birdsboro has been ordered to cease and desist from failing to pay each live poultry dealer 

obtaining live poultry by purchase in a cash sale, before the close of the next business day 

following the purchase of poultry, and each live poultry dealer obtaining live poultry under 

a poultry growing arrangement shall, before the close of the 15th day following the week in 

which the poultry is slaughtered, deliver, to the cash seller or poultry from whom such live 

poultry dealer obtains the poultry, the full amount due to such cash seller or poultry grower on 

account of such poultry

They have also been assessed an $34,000 civil penalty of which $20,000 will be held in 

abeyance for a period of one year for so long as Birdsboro does not violate the provisions of 

this order

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 62

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 56-1

Jacob Thompson, d/b/a Jacob Thompson Cattle Co. Is Prohibited from Registering with

Packers and Stockyards Program for Five Years

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2015 – On Aug. 25, 2014, the U.S. Department of Agricultu

issued a Default Decision and Order against Jacob Thompson (Thompson), doing business 

as Jacob Thompson Cattle Co., Carthage, Texas, which became final and effective Dec. 10, 

2014

Thompson has been ordered to cease and desist from:

• issuing checks in payment of livestock purchases without having and maintaining sufficient 

funds on deposit and available in the account upon which such checks are drawn to pay 

when presented; and

• failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock

Thompson is prohibited from registering to engage in business subject to the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act for a period of five years. After the expiration of this five year 

time period, Thompson may submit an application for registration to the Packers and 

Stockyards Program (P&SP) along with the required bond or bond equivalent. Thompson is

also prohibited from engaging in business subject to the P&S Act in any capacity for which 

registration is required under the P&S Act without being registered with the P&SP

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 63

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 58-1

GIPSA Alleges KMS Cattle, Inc., and Kyle D. Sorrels Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, April 22, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that KMS Cattle, 

Inc. (KMS) and Kyle D. Sorrels (Sorrels), Beebe, Ark., failed to pay the full amount of t

purchase price for livestock within the time period required by the Packers and Stockyards 

(P&S) Act

GIPSA filed a complaint against KMS and Sorrels on Feb. 5, 2015. The complaint can be 

found on the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations 

admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, KMS and Sorrels may be ordered to cease and desist 

from violating the P&S Act, suspended, and/or assessed a civil penalty

KMS was engaged in business of buying and selling livestock in commerce as a dealer for its 

own account and is not registered with the Secretary (Secretary) of Agriculture

Sorrels was president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer of KMS; a registered agent for 

KMS; the person who has managed, directed, and controlled KMS; engaged in the business 

of buying and selling livestock in commerce as a dealer for his own account; and is registered 

with the Secretary

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 64

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 59-1

Eastern Livestock Company, LLC’s Registration Has Been Suspended for 10 Years

WASHINGTON, May 5, 2015 – On Dec. 17, 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Gra

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a consent decision with 

Eastern Livestock Company, LLC (Eastern), New Albany, Ind

An Administrative Law Judge ordered Eastern, its agents and employees, to cease and 

desist from:

• failing to pay the full purchase price of livestock;

• failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price of livestock;

• issuing checks in payment for livestock purchases without having sufficient funds on 

deposit; and

• engaging in business in any capacity for which bonding is required without filing and 

maintaining an adequate bond or its equivalent as required by the Packers and Stockyards 

(P&S) Act and Regulations

The Administrative Law Judge also suspended Eastern’s registration under the P&S Act and 

regulations for 10 years

Eastern was one of two respondents named in the complaint, which initiated this enforcement 

action, issued on Nov. 19, 2010. This consent decision concludes our action against Easte

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 65

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 60-1

Thomas P. Gibson is prohibited from Registering under the Packers and Stockyards Act for 10 

Years

WASHINGTON, May 5, 2015 – On Feb. 20, 2015, an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) for the

U.S. Department of Agriculture issued a Decision and Order on the Record against Thoma

P. Gibson (Gibson), New Albany, In

The ALJ ordered Gibson to cease and desist from:

• Failing to pay the full purchase price for livestock

• Failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock

• Issuing checks in payment for livestock purchases without having sufficient funds on 

deposit and available in the account upon which such checks are drawn to pay such 

checks when presented

• Engaging in business in any capacity for which bonding is required without filing 

and maintaining an adequate bond or its equivalent, as required by the Packers and 

Stockyards (P&S) Act and Regulations

The ALJ also prohibited Gibson from registering under the P&S Act for 10 years

The ALJ’s order and Gibson’s prohibition both became effective on or about April 20, 2015

Gibson was the President of Eastern Livestock Company, LLC (Eastern), in New Albany, Ind

He also owned 65% of its stock. A court dismissed him as an officer of Eastern in Nov. 2010. 

It also issued a temporary restraining order, which forced Eastern to cease operations. A few

weeks later creditors filed a petition to force the corporation into bankruptcy.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law. It promotes fair and

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 66

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 61-1

H&P Cattle, LLC, d/b/a Gowan Stockyards Has Been Assessed a $18,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, May 13, 2015 – On April 24, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a consent decision 

with H&P Cattle, LLC (H&P), doing business as Gowan Stockyards, Kosciusko, Miss

An Administrative Law Judge ordered H&P, its owners, directors, agents and employees, to 

cease and desist from:

• generating or permitting to be generated, at the request or direction of another person, 

false or misleading records in connection with activities subject to the Packers and 

Stockyards (P&S) Act;

• entering into, continuing in, or cooperating in any agreement, arrangement, understanding, 

or course of business with any person for the purpose of aiding or assisting such person 

to obtain money from the purchasers of livestock by false or deceptive pretenses, or which 

enables such person to engage in a practice which operates or would operate as a false or 

deceptive pretense upon any person in connection with the purchase or sale of livestock;

• making, issuing, or circulating any false or misleading records concerning the price or sale 

of livestock; and

• failing to base the payment of livestock on the actual weight of the livestock. H&P has

been ordered to keep and maintain accounts, records, and memoranda, which fully and 

correctly disclose the true nature of all transactions involved in its business subject to the 

P&S Act

H&P has also been assessed an $18,000 civil penalty

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 67

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 63-1

Merlin L. Garver, Inc. and Merlin Jan Garver Have Been Ordered to Cease and Desist

WASHINGTON, May 13, 2015 – On March 21, 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a consent decision 

with Merlin L. Garver, Inc. and Merlin Jan Garver, Wooster, Oh

An Administrative Law Judge ordered Merlin L. Garver, Inc. and Merlin Jan Garver to ceas

and desist from:

• agreeing or otherwise arranging to take turns with others in the bidding and buying of 

livestock at auctions or other livestock markets; and

• failing to conduct their livestock buying operations independently of and in competition with 

other dealers, market agencies, or packers

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that 

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 68

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 62-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Pat & Carolyn Gully, d/b/a Gully Enterprises, Inc. Resulting in a $700 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, May 13, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Pat & Carolyn Gully, d/b/a Gully Enterprises, Inc., Novice, Texas – waived their right to a

hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $700 after 

GIPSA found that they failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 69

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 64-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Chester D. Coleman & Cookie Coleman Cattle Company, Inc. 

Resulting in a $5,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, May 20, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Chester D. Coleman & Cookie Coleman Cattle Company, Inc., Texarkana, Texas – waive

their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of 

$5,000 after GIPSA found that they failed to pay, when due, for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 70

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 67-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Amy Knight, d/b/a Urbana Stockyards Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, June 18, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Amy Knight, d/b/a Urbana Stockyards, Urbana, Mo. – waived her right to a hearing, entered

into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,000 after GIPSA found that 

she failed to have her scale tested

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 71

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 69-1

GIPSA Requests Information on Market Agencies Selling on Commission; Purchases from 

Consignment

WASHINGTON, June 18, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) is seeking comments from the public 

regarding regulations issued under the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, 1921, as 

amended and supplemented

Specifically, GIPSA’s regulations address circumstances under which a market agency 

is allowed to sell livestock on a commission basis to its owners, officers, and employees. 

There may be some need to update this regulation to address current marketing practices

GIPSA would like to determine whether additional information is needed in clarifying the 

circumstances under which key employees of the market agency, those designated as an 

auctioneer, weighmaster, or salesman, may purchase livestock

GIPSA published a request for information in a June 15, 2015, Federal Register Notice 

(Vol. 80, No. 114, page 34097-34098). Additional information is available in GIPSA

Federal Register Notice at: http://www.gipsa.usda.gov/federalregister/federalregister.

Consideration will be given to comments received on or before August 14, 2015. Interested

parties may send comments by any of the following methods:

• E-Mail: comments.gipsa@usda.g

• Mail, Hand Delivery, or Courier: M. Irene Omade, GIPSA, USDA, 1400 Independence

Avenue, SW., Room 2542A-S, Washington, D.C. 20250-3

• Fax: (202) 690-2173

• Internet: http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the on-line instructions for submitti

comments

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 72

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 68-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Stephen G. Manieri, Manieri Home Dress Meats Resulting in a $1,050 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, June 18, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Stephen G. Manieri, Manieri Home Dress Meats, Beschtelsville, Pa. – waived his right to 

hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,050 after 

GIPSA found that he failed to pay, when due, for livestock purchases

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 73

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 71-1

Euclid Stockyards, Inc., d/b/a Euclid Stockyards and Jeremy T. Gorham, d/b/a Euclid Stockyards

Have Been Assessed a $20,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, June 25, 2015 – On June 1, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a Consent Decision 

with Euclid Stockyards, Inc. (Euclid), doing business as Euclid Stockyards and Jeremy 

Gorham (Gorham), doing business as Euclid Stockyards, Ontario, Ga

An Administrative Law Judge ordered Euclid and Gorham to cease and desist from:

• failing to deposit in their Custodial Accounts for Shippers’ Proceeds within times prescribed 

in section 201.42 of the Regulations amounts equal to the outstanding proceeds receivable

from the sale of consigned livestock; and

• failing to maintain their Custodial Accounts for Shippers’ Proceeds in strict conformity with 

section 201.42 of the Regulation

Euclid and Gorham have also been assessed a $20,000 civil penalty. The Packers and

Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 74

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 70-1

GIPSA Alleges Matt Goosen, d/b/a Dennis Goosen, d/b/a Cane Cattle Company, d/b/a Cane 

Cattle, d/b/a Cain Cattle, d/b/a Goosen Land and Cattle, and d/b/a Goosen Cattle Violated the 

Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, June 25, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Matt Goosen, doing 

business as Dennis Goosen, Cane Cattle Company, Cane Cattle, Cain Cattle, Goosen Land 

and Cattle, and Goosen Cattle, Cisco, Texas:

• failed to pay the full amount of the purchase price for livestock before the close of the next 

business day following purchase of livestock; and

• issued checks in payment for livestock purchases without maintaining sufficient funds on 

deposit and available in the account upon which the checks were drawn to pay the checks 

when presented

GIPSA filed a complaint against Matt Goosen on May 11, 2015. The complaint can be found 

on the GIPSA website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations

admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Matt Goosen may be ordered to cease and desist 

from violating the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and/or assessed a civil 

penalty

Matt Goosen was engaged in the business of a dealer buying and selling livestock in 

commerce for his own account and is registered with the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. Ma

Goosen conducts his dealer operations subject to the P&S Act under the following trade 

names: Dennis Goosen, Cane Cattle Company, Cane Cattle, Cain Cattle, Goosen Land and 

Cattle, and Goosen Cattle. In a sworn affidavit, he admitted to buying and selling livestock 

under the names Dennis Goosen, Cane Cattle Company, Goosen Land and Cattle, and 

Goosen Cattle

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 75

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 72-1

Robert Snow, d/b/a Snow Cattle Has Been Assessed a $31,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, June 25, 2015 – On May 6, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grai

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a Consent Decision and 

Order with Robert Snow (Snow), doing business as Snow Cattle Co., Garvin, Okl

An Administrative Law Judge ordered Snow to cease and desist from:

• engaging in the business of a market agency buying and/or selling livestock in commerce 

on a commission basis or in the business of a dealer buying and selling livestock in 

commerce without maintaining a bond or bond equivalent;

• failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock

• purchasing livestock in commerce and failing to pay the full purchase price for the 

livestock;

• issuing checks in payment for livestock purchases without maintaining sufficient funds on 

deposit and available in the account upon which the checks are drawn for payment when 

presented; and

• failing to keep and maintain records which fully and correctly disclosed all the transactions 

involved in his business as a dealer

Snow was suspended for a period of 30 days and thereafter until he has an adequate bond 

or its equivalent and is in compliance with the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. Snow has

also been assessed a $31,000 civil penalty

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 76

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 73-1

GIPSA Alleges Gary Wedel Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, July 1, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Gary Wedel 

(Wedel), Cordell, Okla., operated as a dealer and market agency buying or selling livestock in

commerce without maintaining an adequate bond or bond equivalent

GIPSA filed a complaint against Wedel on May 6, 2015. The complaint can be found on 

the GIPSA website: gipsa.usda.gov.psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations are admit

or proven in an oral hearing, Wedel may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the 

Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and/or assessed a civil penalty

Wedel has engaged in the business of a dealer buying or selling livestock in commerce and a 

market agency buying or selling livestock on a commission basis in commerce

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 77

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 74-1

Kenneth L. Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker Are Suspended for Five Years

WASHINGTON, July 1, 2015 – On June 22, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a Consent Decision 

and Order with Kenneth L. Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker, Parkesburg, 

An Administrative Law Judge ordered Kenneth L. Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker t

cease and desist from:

• failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock;

• failing to pay the full purchase price of livestock;

• failing to properly maintain their Custodial Account for Shippers’ Proceeds;

• failing to deposit in the Custodial Account for Shippers’ Proceeds an amount equal to the 

proceeds receivable for sales of consigned livestock; and

• operating while Kenneth L. Smoker, LLC’s current liabilities exceed its current asset

Kenneth L. Smoker, LLC and Kenneth L. Smoker are suspended for a period 

five years beginning July 10, 2015. Upon application to the Packers and Stockyards Program

(P&SP), a supplemental order may be issued terminating the suspension of the respondents 

at any time after one year upon demonstration by the respondents that they are in full 

compliance with the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. Further this order may be modified 

upon applications to the P&SP to permit Kenneth L. Smoker’s salaried employment

by another registrant or packer after the expiration of one year of suspension upon 

demonstration of circumstances warranting modification of the order, such as a reasonable 

schedule to restitution

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 78

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 78-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Arnold Kasmiersky, Jr. Resulting in a $200 Penalty

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Arnold Kasmiersky, Jr., Fayetteville, Texas – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $200 after GIPSA found that he failed 

to pay, when due, for livestock purchases

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 79

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 77-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Johnnie Andrew Fisher Resulting in a $2,750 Penalty

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Johnnie Andrew Fisher, Lawrenceburg, Tenn. – waived his right to a hearing, entered into a

stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of $2,750 after GIPSA found that he failed 

to pay, when due, for livestock purchases, failed to pay for livestock, and issued insufficient 

funds checks in payment for livestock

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 80

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 75-1

GIPSA Alleges Johnson County Cattle Auction, LLP, d/b/a Johnson County Cattle Auction, 

and R.A. Cantrell, a/k/a Bo Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, Leah Davis, and George Davis, Jr., jointly 

formerly d/b/a Johnson County Cattle Auction Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Johnson County 

Cattle Auction, LLP (Johnson County Cattle), doing business as Johnson County Cattle 

Auction, LLP, and R.A. Cantrell, also known as Bo Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, Leah Davis, an

George Davis, Jr., jointly formerly did business as Johnson County Cattle Auction, Cleburne,

Texas:

• failed to properly use and maintain Johnson County Cattle’s custodial account;

• had custodial account shortages in that they failed to timely reimburse the custodial 

account for uncollected receivables; and

• failed to timely reimburse the custodial account for purchases made by buyers who had 

not paid by the close of the seventh business day following the sale of the livestock which 

created/contributed to a shortage in Johnson County Cattle’s custodial account

GIPSA filed a complaint against Johnson County Cattle, R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, Leah 

Davis, and George Davis, Jr. on June 23, 2015. The complaint can be found on the GIPS

website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegations are admitted

proven in an oral hearing, Johnson County Cattle, R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, Leah Davis

and George Davis, Jr. may be ordered to cease and desist from violating the Packers and

Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and/or assessed a civil penalty
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 81

Johnson County Cattle is the successor-in-interest to the general partnership of R.

Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, Leah Davis, and George Davis, Jr., jointly formerly doing business

as Johnson County Cattle Auctions; engaged in the business of conducting and operating 

Johnson County Cattle Auction, a stockyard posted under and subject to the P&S Act; 

engaged in the business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on a commissions 

basis and is registered with the U.S. Secretary of Agricultu

R.A. Cantrell, also known as Bo Cantrell is a 25% partner of Johnson County Cattle an

responsible, as a partner with Patsy Cantrell, Leah Davis, and George Davis, Jr. for the

operations of Johnson County Cattle. R.A. Cantrell was a partner, with Patsy Cantrell, Le

Davis and George Davis, Jr., in a general partnership doing business as Johnson County

Cattle. He is also responsible, with Patsy Cantrell, Leah Davis, and George Davis, Jr., fo

conducting and operating Johnson County Cattle, a stockyard posted under and subject 

to the provisions of the P&S Act and engaged in the business of a market agency selling 

livestock in commerce on a commission basis

Patsy Cantrell is a 25% partner of Johnson County Cattle and responsible, as a partner 

with R.A. Cantrell, Leah Davis, and George Davis, Jr. for the operations of Johnson Coun

Cattle. Patsy Cantrell was a partner, with R.A. Cantrell, Leah Davis and George Davis, J

in a general partnership doing business as Johnson County Cattle. She is also responsible,

with R.A. Cantrell, Leah Davis, and George Davis, Jr., for conducting and operating Johns

County Cattle, a stockyard posted under and subject to the provisions of the P&S Act and 

engaged in the business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on a commission 

basis

Leah Davis is a 25% partner of Johnson County Cattle and responsible, as a partner with 

R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, and George Davis, Jr. for the operations of Johnson Coun

Cattle. Leah Davis was a partner, with R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell and George Davis, J

in a general partnership doing business as Johnson County Cattle. She is also responsible,

with R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, and George Davis, Jr., for conducting and operati

Johnson County Cattle, a stockyard posted under and subject to the provisions of the P&S 

Act and engaged in the business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on a 

commission basis

George Davis, Jr. is a 25% partner of Johnson County Cattle and responsible, as a partner

with R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, and Leah Davis for the operations of Johnson Count

Cattle. George Davis, Jr. was a partner, with R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell and Leah Davis,

a general partnership doing business as Johnson County Cattle. He is also responsible, with

R.A. Cantrell, Patsy Cantrell, and Leah Davis, for conducting and operating Johnson Count

Cattle, a stockyard posted under and subject to the provisions of the P&S Act and engaged in 

the business of a market agency selling livestock in commerce on a commission basis

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 82

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 76-1

KMS Cattle, Inc. and Kyle D. Sorrels Have Been Assessed a $8,000 Civil Penalty

WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 – On June 26, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a Consent Decision 

and Order with KMS Cattle, Inc. (KMS) and Kyle D. Sorrels (Sorrels), Beebe, A

An Administrative Law Judge ordered KMS and Sorrels to cease and desist from failing to 

pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock

KMS and Sorrels have also been assessed a $8,000 civil penalty

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 83

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 80-1

Blue Horse Company, LLC and Shawn Breitsprecher Have Been Assessed a $29,000 Civil 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, July 22, 2015 – On July 10, 2015, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grai

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a Consent Decision with Blue 

Horse Company, LLC (Blue Horse) and Shawn Breisprecher (Breitsptecher), Ossian, Iowa

An Administrative Law Judge ordered Blue Horse and Breitsprecher to cease and desist 

from:

• recording the weight of livestock at other than their true and correct weights;

• assessing and collecting purchase amount for livestock from buyers on the basis of false 

or incorrect weights;

• failing to base the payment of livestock on the actual weight of livestock; and

• failing to otherwise operate in compliance with section 201.55 of the Regulation

Blue Horse and Breitsprecher have been assessed a $29,000 civil penalty. They were also

ordered to increase their bond from $85,000 to $95,000 and have done so. This was base

on the volume of livestock purchased by Blue Horse and Breitsprecher and reported on their

2014 annual report

The Packers and Stockyards Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that

promotes fair and competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry

industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 84

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 79-1

GIPSA Alleges Richard Reece Violated the Packers and Stockyards Act

WASHINGTON, July 22, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) has found evidence that Richard Reece, 

Adel, Iowa:

• failed to pay, when due, the full amount of the purchase price for livestock;

• paid for livestock with checks dated the date of the sale, but delivered them the date of 

deposit; and

• failed to pay the full amount of the purchase price for livestock purchased

GIPSA filed a complaint against Richard Reece on June 15, 2015. The complaint can be 

found on the GIPSA website: www.gipsa.usda.gov/psp/enforcement.aspx. If the allegat

are admitted, or proven in an oral hearing, Richard Reece may be ordered to cease and 

desist from violating the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act, suspended, and/or assessed a 

civil penalty

Richard Reece was engaged in the business of buying and selling livestock in commerce as 

a dealer for his own account and is registered with the U.S. Secretary of Agricultu

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 85

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 81-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Virginia Purebred, Inc., d/b/a Roanoke-Hollins Stockyard Resulting in 

a $500 Penalty

WASHINGTON, July 22, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Virginia Purebred Sales, Inc., d/b/a Roanoke-Hollins Stockyard, Cloverdale, Va. – waive

their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty of 

$500 after GIPSA found that they failed to have their scale tested and provide test results in 

the first half of 2014 per requirement of the P&S Act.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 86

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 83-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Daniel B. May and La Vaca Cattle Co., Inc. Resulting in a $2,000 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, July 29, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Daniel B. May and La Vaca Cattle Co., Inc., Littleton, Colo. – May and La Vaca wai

their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a penalty 

of $2,000 after GIPSA found that they failed to comply with the prompt payment provisions 

of Section 409 of the Packers and Stockyards Act. La Vaca registered as a dealer with

the Packers and Stockyards Program in November 1997, as a dealer buying and selling 

livestock, a dealer buying livestock on a commission basis, and as a dealer providing clearing 

services

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 87

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 82-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Nebraska Livestock Sales of O’Neill, LLC, d/b/a Shamrock Livestock 

Market Resulting in a $300 Penalty

WASHINGTON, July 29, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Nebraska Livestock Sales of O’Neill, LLC, d/b/a Shamrock Livestock Market, Fremont, Neb

– waived its right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, and agreed to pay a 

penalty of $300 after GIPSA found that it failed to have its scale tested the second half of 

testing season 2013 and 2014

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 88

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 84-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Nebraska Livestock Sales of Alma, LLC, d/b/a Alma Livestock 

Resulting in a $300 Penalty

WASHINGTON, July 29, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection

Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA) enforcement rules provide a mechanism 

to quickly resolve violations of the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer an

alleged violator the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering into a stipulation 

agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

Nebraska Livestock Sales of Alma, LLC, d/b/a Alma Livestock, Fremont, Neb. – Nebraska

Livestock Sales of Alma waived its right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement, 

and agreed to pay a penalty of $300 after GIPSA found that it failed to have their scale tested 

between July 1 and December 31, 2014

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 89

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 86-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Joseph (Jody) Pimentel and Pimentel Cattle Co., Inc. Resulting in a 

$2,125 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2015 – Joseph (Jody) Pimentel and Pimentel Cattle Co., Inc., L

Banos, Calif., waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement with the

U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administratio

(GIPSA), and agreed to pay a penalty of $2,125 after GIPSA found that he paid 5 markets up 

to 11 days late for 28 livestock purchase transactions from Oct. 7, 2014 through March 24,

2015

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right

to a hearing and entering into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 90

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 87-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Paul Hight (Paul Hight Cattle, LLC) Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2015 – Paul Hight (Paul Hight Cattle, LLC) Bossier City, La., waive

his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement with the U.S. Department o

Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), and agreed 

to pay a penalty of $1,000 after GIPSA found that he failed to pay, when due, for livestock 

purchased

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right

to a hearing and entering into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 91

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 85-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Topeka Auction & Marketing, Inc., d/b/a Topeka Livestock Auction 

Resulting in a $2,500 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 5, 2015 – Nebraska Livestock Sales of O’Neill, LLC, d/b/a Shamrock

Livestock Market, Fremont, Neb., waived its right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation

agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers an

Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), and agreed to pay a penalty of $2,500 after GIPSA found 

that it used an electronic scale ticket that did not provide which weighments are weighed on 

each scale and used an electronic scale ticket that did not provide the time at which the scale 

was balanced

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right

to a hearing and entering into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 92

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 89-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Dallas Dewees, d/b/a Foy Reynolds Cattle Co. Resulting in a $1,200 

Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12, 2015 – Dallas Dewees, d/b/a Foy Reynolds Cattle Co., Bonifay

Fla., waived his right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement with the U

Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration 

(GIPSA), and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,200 after GIPSA found that he failed to pay, 

when due, for livestock purchased

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right

to a hearing and entering into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry 
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 93

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 88-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Steve Lueck and Fred Lueck, d/b/a Pacific Livestock Auction, LLC 

Resulting in a $5,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 12, 2015 – Steve Lueck and Fred Lueck, d/b/a Pacific Livestock 

Auction, LLC, Chandler, Ariz., waived their right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation

agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers an

Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), and agreed to pay a penalty of $5,000 after GIPSA found 

that they failed to timely remit sales proceeds and issued insufficient funds checks.

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right

to a hearing and entering into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 94

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 90-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Nebraska Livestock Sales of Blue Hill, LLC, d/b/a Blue Hill Livestock 

Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 19, 2015 – Nebraska Livestock Sales of Blue Hill, LLC, d/b/a Blue Hill

Livestock, Fremont, Neb., waived its right to a hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement

with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyard

Administration (GIPSA), and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,000 after GIPSA found that it 

failed to test scales as required by the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the P&S Act

GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering 

into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 95

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 94-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Dennis Dowers Resulting in a $1,875 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2015 –Dennis Dowers, Cincinnati, Ohio, waived his right to a

hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grai

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), and agreed to pay a penalty of 

$1,875 after GIPSA found that he failed to pay, when due, for livestock purchased

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right

to a hearing and entering into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 96

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 92-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Glenn L. Tefft Resulting in a $2,500 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2015 – Glenn L. Tefft, Evans Mills, N.Y., waived his right t

hearing, entered into a stipulation agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grai

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), and agreed to pay a penalty of 

$2,500 after GIPSA found that he failed to pay, when due, for livestock purchased

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the Packers 

and Stockyards (P&S) Act. GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right

to a hearing and entering into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 97

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 91-1

Lonnie Martin to Pay A $12,000 Fine for Not Filing Annual Reports with USDA

WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2015 – On Aug. 17, 2015, Lonnie Martin (Martin), East Earl

Pa., was ordered to pay a civil penalty in the amount of $12,000 for not filing the required 

annual report with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Packers and Stockyard

Program (P&SP) for the 2011 and 2013 calendar years. The U.S. Department of Justi

Federal Programs Branch represented USDA and the District Court for the Eastern District of 

Pennsylvania approved entry of a consent decree

On June 4, 2012, P&SP personally served Martin a Notice of Default (NOD) notifying him 

that he failed to file his 2011 annual report. Martin failed to timely file his annual report for the 

calendar year ending December 31, 2011, which was due on or before April 17, 2012

On July 24, 2014, P&SP sent Martin a NOD notifying him that he failed to file his 2013 annual 

report which was due on or before April 16, 2014. As of February 23, 2015, Martin has not

filed his required annual report for the 2011 and 2013 calendar years, at which point USDA 

filed suit.

To ensure farmers and ranchers are financially protected when they sell their livestock, all 

meat packers, live poultry dealers, market agencies and livestock dealers operating under 

the jurisdiction of the Packers and Stockyards Act of 1921 (P&S Act) are required by federal 

regulation to file reports annually. These reports provide critical information used by the Grain 

Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration to ensure fair trade

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 98

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 93-1

GIPSA Settles a Case with Nebraska Livestock Sales of Tecumseh, LLC, d/b/a Tecumseh 

Livestock Auction Resulting in a $1,000 Penalty

WASHINGTON, Aug. 26, 2015 – Nebraska Livestock Sales of Tecumseh, LLC, d/b/a

Tecumseh Livestock Auction, Fremont, Neb., waived its right to a hearing, entered into a

stipulation agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspection, Packer

and Stockyards Administration (GIPSA), and agreed to pay a penalty of $1,000 after GIPSA 

found that it failed to test its scale and provide test results in 2014 per requirement of the 

Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act

GIPSA enforcement rules provide a mechanism to quickly resolve violations of the P&S Act

GIPSA may offer alleged violators the option of waiving their right to a hearing and entering 

into a stipulation agreement to quickly resolve alleged violations

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and 

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 99

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 96-1

Randy Deaton, d/b/a Deaton Livestock Is Suspended as a Registrant for Five Years

WASHINGTON, Sept. 2, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a Consent Decision with Randy Deaton 

(Deaton), doing business as Deaton Livestock, London, Ky., on April 21, 201

An Administrative Law Judge ordered Deaton to cease and desist from: 

• failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock; and

• issuing checks in payment for livestock purchases without having and maintaining 

sufficient funds on deposit and available in the accounts upon which they are drawn to pay 

checks when presented

Deaton is suspended as a registrant under the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act for a

period of five years. However, the suspension will be held in abeyance for so long as Deaton

continues to make timely payments to Farmers Livestock Market, Inc., as described in the

Letter

of Intent. If Deaton fails to make timely payments, after notice and opportunity for hearing

Deaton’s registration will be suspended

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
GIPSA News Release 2015

Page 100

News Release Grain Inspection,

Packers and

Stockyards Administration

STOP 3601

1400 Independence Ave., SW

Washington, D.C. 20250-3601

Web: www.gipsa.usda.gov

Contact: 

Catherine M. Grasso, (202) 720-7201 

Catherine.M.Grasso@usda.gov

Release No.: 95-1

Russell Ortmeier, d/b/a Austen Farms Is Prohibited from Registering under the P&S Act for Five 

Years

WASHINGTON, Sept. 2, 2015 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Grain Inspectio

Packers and Stockyards Administration entered into a Consent Decision and Order with 

Russell Ortmeier (Ortmeier), doing business as Austen Farms, Omaha, Neb., on July 8,

2015

An Administrative Law Judge ordered Ortmeier to cease and desist from:

• failing to pay, when due, the full purchase price for livestock;

• failing to maintain sufficient funds on deposit and available in the account upon which 

payment checks a drawn to pay such checks when presented;

• engaging in business in any capacity for which registration and bonding are required under 

the Packers and Stockyards (P&S) Act without first becoming properly registered under the 

P&S Act and without filing and maintaining an adequate bond or its equivalent as required 

by the P&S Act and Regulations

Ortmeier is prohibited from registering under the P&S Act for a period of five years.

The P&S Act is a fair trade practice and payment protection law that promotes fair and

competitive marketing environments for the livestock, meat, and poultry industries
United States Department of Agriculture

Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration

News Release Archive 2015

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies

the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are 

prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender 

expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance 

program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded 

by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print

audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202)

720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program

information may be made available in languages other than English

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found 

online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and 

provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-999

Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary 

for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email

program.intake@usda.g

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender