FBI file: Animal Mutilation, Animal Mutilation Part 04

mutilations occurring on Indian lands, but that its investigation was limited to these mutilations. CIDDIO said he would insure that Senator SCHMITT was apprised of this limitation. This information was given to Mr. CIDDIO on 4/9/79.

During the conference, FORREST S. PUTMAN, Albuquerque FBI, explained that the FBI's jurisdiction extended to mutilation occurring on Indian lands. He said, however, that the FBI in conducting its investigation of these mutilations would take into account mutilations occurring elsewhere which showed a similar MO.

The jurisdictional problems of all law enforcement officials investigating mutilations were discussed during an afternoon session of the conference attended only by law enforcement officials. It was pointed out that in most cases, the mutilations amounted to misdemeanor violations and were not a felony. As Senator SCHMITT pointed out during the general conference that the FBI might have jurisdiction to investigate mutilations because of violations of state laws on Indian lands, the question arose whether this would be a felony or a misdemeanor violation. Under New Mexico State Law, the mere mutilation of a dead animal would be simply a misdemeanor violation. Investigation of these matters would not be in keeping with the FBI's current efforts to concentrate on priority matters.

The Albuquerque FBI recommends that FBIHQ point out to the Justice Department that if the FBI is asked to conduct investigation into cattle mutilations of which the FBI has no jurisdiction, we will be opening ourselves to criticism similar to criticism we have received in the past for investigating matters wherein we have had no jurisdiction. It would seem appropriate that if FBI participation in investigation of cattle mutilations is desired by the Justice Department, effort should be made to secure Congressional approval or an Executive Order through which the appropriate funds could be authorized and proper jurisdiction granted to the FBI.

Under these conditions, the FBI could approach this matter without expectation of undue criticism and with the anticipation that the proper resources could be utilized to conduct an effective investigation.