A three-month investigation into stolen cattle has uncovered two decades of fraudulent meat packing practices in Northeast Iowa.
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) says 59-year-old Ethan Guyer, Jr., of Elgin was arrested March 18th for first-degree fraudulent practice, a Class C felony, and two counts of second-degree theft, Class D felonies. He also faces one count of meat and poultry license violation, though FCSO says the investigation is ongoing and more charges may be filed.
According to court documents, the investigation of Guyer began after FCSO received a report of the theft of a Holstein steer on January 14th. The victim claimed Guyer came to his farm near Elgin last October, gutted and skinned the steer and left with the meat for processing. A month later, the victim ordered his cuts of meat, but after a few more weeks, he had not received his meat, with Guyer allegedly ignoring multiple calls and two letters from the victim. A compliance check by an Iowa Department of Agriculture & Land Stewardship (IDALS) officer learned all the meat had gone bad and the victim was out the steer, valued at over $2,400.
On February 13th, another victim reported similar dealings with Guyer to FCSO that they had not received meat from a steer he butchered for them in August 2023. That victim’s steer was valued at $1,400.
Further investigation alleges that, on or about 2005 through February 2025, Guyer operated an establishment other than a food establishment without first obtaining a license from IDALS to operate a meat and poultry slaughter operation in Elgin. Investigators say Guyer admitted he was engaged in the slaughter, packing, and distribution of beef and swine for the past 20 years.
In a written statement, Guyer further admitted slaughtering and processing of 150 beef and 500 swine, with total sales of almost $190,000. He also failed to have meat food products inspected.
FCSO was also assisted by the Iowa Meat and Poultry Inspection Bureau.
