Jordan Antonio Rivera, 18, was arrested April 9 in Anderson County on a warrant obtained by Special Ranger Swofford. He was charged with theft of livestock, a third-degree felony.
The case began in January 2026 after Rivera purchased four horses through an online auction at Bowie Livestock Auction. Rivera used PayPal to complete the purchase, arranged for the horses to be picked up and later disputed the charges, stopping payment after the animals had been released.
During the investigation, Swofford obtained evidence and witness statements indicating Rivera’s involvement. Records from Rivera’s phone and PayPal account, along with text messages to associates regarding the horses, led to the issuance of a warrant and the filing of charges.
Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association would like to thank the Montague County District Attorney’s Office, Montague County Sheriff’s Department, and Texas Game Wardens Oscar Henson and Brandon Thacker for their assistance in the investigation.
