The Hall County Sheriff's Office is investigating the theft of 30 cattle from the 4000 block of Holly Springs Road in Gillsville.

The livestock's owner, Wayne Wright, 67, of Jefferson, told authorities the cattle were stolen October 13-14.

Wright had moved the cattle into a holding pen with plans to move them to another property. When he returned the following day, he discovered all of the cattle missing, said Sgt. Stephen Wilbanks, sheriff's office spokesman.

"The owner immediately notified and has been monitoring local livestock sales facilities since the theft, but has been unsuccessful in his efforts to locate the cattle or gain any knowledge of their whereabouts," Wilbanks said.

The cattle, consisting of 15 cows and 15 calves, are mixed colors, and some are branded with the letters "WT" on the hip. They have a total value of $21,500.

Wright said, at the time, he had lost the lease on the Gillsville property and was moving his cattle to another pasture in Jackson County.

He had moved half his cattle when the theft occurred.

At first, "I couldn't see how they got out (of the holding pen), but I hoped they were still in the pasture," Wright said.

He later began to suspect foul play, saying he has heard reports of livestock being stolen from people's property.

"The economy has gotten so bad, there are things (happening) you wouldn't believe," Wright said.

Wright, who has insurance on his cattle, said the crime isn't as hard to commit as one might think.

It can be pulled off with "a couple of good trailers," he said. "I know some people who can put them all in one trailer."

Anyone with information about the theft is asked to call investigators at 770-531-6879.