The US Department of Agriculture filed a complaint against Arkie Kiehne of Portales, N. M., on May 7, 2025, for an alleged violation of the Packers and Stockyards Act.

A USDA investigation revealed that, during the period from Jan. 23, 2022, to Sept. 21, 2022, Kiehne purchased 2,454 head of livestock for a total purchase price of $2,096,401. During that time, Kiehne was operating as a livestock dealer buying on a commission basis, without being properly registered and bonded, in violation of the P&S Act.

Livestock market agencies and dealers must maintain a bond as a measure of payment protection for livestock sellers. The size of the bond is based on the volume of business, generally an average of two days’ business, with a minimum of $10,000.

The secretary of agriculture has authority under the P&S Act to act against violators, including issuing cease and desist orders, suspending registrations, and applying other appropriate remedies as authorized by the act. 

Source: USDA AMS