Ames Man Charged in $284K Cattle Theft Case

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Elk City, OK – A man from Ames, Oklahoma, is facing serious charges in Beckham County after allegedly defrauding a cattle buyer in a scheme involving nearly $300,000 worth of livestock.

Darin Wayne Suit, 53, has been charged with Larceny of Domestic Animals and Fraud by Trick or Deception, according to an affidavit filed on March 4, 2025. The case stems from a deal in which Suit allegedly agreed to purchase 184 head of black Angus bred cattle for $284,000 but failed to deliver the agreed-upon funds.

The case began in October 2024, when a cattle seller in Merritt, OK, entered into an agreement with Suit for the sale of the cattle. The seller and his son were reportedly expecting a payment that never arrived.

Text messages obtained during the investigation indicate that Suit repeatedly delayed payment, citing banking issues, a bad check, and even a water leak at his residence as reasons for the holdup. Despite multiple assurances that the money was on its way, the seller never received payment.

By January 2025, the seller threatened to file charges, prompting further delays and excuses from Suit. The investigation eventually led authorities to locate Suit at a farm in Ames, where he again promised payment. However, after months of unfulfilled promises, the seller officially pressed charges, leading to Suit’s arrest warrant.

Suit faces 184 felony counts of Larceny of Domestic Animals and fraudulent financial practices. If convicted, he could face significant fines and prison time.

The case remains under investigation in Beckham County.