South Dakota man accused of stealing pigs

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — A former John Morrell and Co. employee has been charged with embezzlement involving grand theft for allegedly selling company pigs and collecting the money for himself.

The Argus Leader reports that 21-year-old Mathew Henry Oldenburg of Sioux Falls moved company-owned animals stored at the Sioux Falls Stockyards to a separate pen during his overnight shift.

Police spokesman Sam Clemens says the pigs were meant to be sold on consignment.

Clemens says Oldenburg allegedly put his name on the separate pen, then collected a $2,000 check when the animals sold.

Clemens says the company suspects Oldenburg might have sold company hogs on other occasions.

Tags: south dakota, agribusiness, livestock, pigs, farm