Neb. rancher charged after 56 dead cows found on property

A Chadron, Nebraska, rancher is facing a staggering list of felony charges after authorities discovered 56 dead cows and a deceased puppy on his property. The investigation, led by the Dawes County Sheriff’s Office, has drawn attention in rural Nebraska and beyond. 

According to multiple news sources, including News Channel Nebraska, Dillon McGannon, 29, was first arrested on May 28 after being accused of shooting a woman’s red heeler puppy and sending her a photo of the animal along with threatening messages. He was charged with intentionally and knowingly torturing an animal resulting in death, disturbing the peace, and intimidation by electronic communication device.

Nebraska TV reported that the deputy responding said that McGannon told him he shot the puppy because it was “useless.” 

Just two days later, on May 30, a neighbor visited McGannon’s property to check on his cattle, knowing that McGannon was in custody. What he found was grim: dozens of dead cows in a pen. Deputies and a veterinarian responded to the scene and ultimately confirmed 56 cattle had died — some potentially three months earlier — due to malnutrition and dehydration.

According to court records, the neighbor told authorities that McGannon had asked for help taking some cattle to a sale barn in late March, but a snowstorm prevented them from completing the task. Investigators said they believe McGannon never fed the penned cattle afterward.



The dead livestock included both cows and calves scattered throughout the pens and surrounding areas. The attending veterinarian concluded that the animals had suffered from a prolonged lack of food and water.

McGannon was arrested again following the discovery and has been charged with 56 counts of cruelty and neglect resulting in the death of an animal. His bond was set at $50,000, and his next court appearance is scheduled for July 2 in Dawes County District Court.