BLACKFOOT - Sheriff Dave Johnson says several animal killings in rural Bingham and Bonneville counties and the Fort Hall Reservation appear to be random acts of violence.

Johnson said two horses were shot and killed in Wolverine Canyon, at least nine cows were killed in neighboring Bonneville County, and five head of cattle were reportedly killed at Wood Creek on the reservation.

While killing of the valuable livestock - the two horses alone are valued at more than $5,000 - is a felony, Johnson said bringing shooters to justice won't be easy.

"There hasn't been any evidence left at the scene," Johnson said. "Unless someone sees them do it, it's hard to prove."

The cows killed in Bonneville County were near the site of a proposed wind farm, but authorities have not connected the incidents to controversial energy projects, he said.

All the animals were killed with a small caliber weapon.

Johnson said he's called in reserve officers to step up patrols in rural areas in the county and range deputies from Bingham and Bonneville counties plan to meet Sept. 23 to coordinate efforts to catch the shooter, or shooters.

Johnson said signs in the Bone area advise residents to look for suspicious vehicles and activity.

Anyone with information is asked to call Bingham County dispatch at (208) 785-1234.