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CATTLE MUTILATIONS FORREST S. PUTMAN, Special Agent in Charge (SAC), Albuquerque Office of the FBI, explained to the conference that the Justice Department had given the FBI authority to investigate those cattle mutilations which have occurred or might occur on Indian lands. He further explained that the Albuquerque FBI would look at such mutilations in connection with mutilations occurring off Indian lands for the purpose of comparison and control, especially where the same methods of operation are noted. SAC PUTMAN said that in order for this matter to be resolved, the facts surrounding such mutilations should be gathered and computerized. District Attorney ELOY MARTINEZ, Santa Fe, New Mexico, told the conference that his judicial district had made application for a $50,000 Law Enforcement Assistance Administratior (LEAA) Grant for the purpose of investigating the cattle mutilations. He explained that there is hope that with the funds from this grant, an investigative unit can be established for the sole purpose of resolving the mutilation problem. He said it is his view that such an investigative unit could serve as a headquarters for all law enforcement officials investigating the mutilations and, in particular, would serve as a repository . for information developed in order that this information could See be coordinated properly. He said such a unit would not only es coordinate this information, but also handle submissions to a qualified lab for both evidence and photographs. Mr. MARTINEZ said a hearing will be held on April 24, 1979, for the purpose of determining whether this grant will be approved. GABE VALDEZ, New Mexico State Police, Dulce, New Mexico, reported he has investigated the death of 90 cattle during the past three years, as well as six horses. Officer VALDEZ said he is convinced that the mutiliations of the animals have not ' been the work of predators because of the precise manner of ie: the cuts. Officer VALDEZ said he had investigated mutilations of several animals which had occurred on the ranch of MANUEL GOMEZ of Dulce, New Mexico. MANUEL GOMEZ addressed the conference and explained he had lost six animals to unexplained deaths which were found in a mutilated condition within the last two years. Further, GOMEZ said that he and his family are experiencing fear and mental anguish because of the mutilations. we cea te ae ee ee pees ett