Daniel David Hoch, 38, from Tongala, Victoria, appeared in the Magistrates Court in Echuca on July 29, 2026, facing six charges related to the theft and deception involving 47 head of cattle valued at more than $50,000. Police allege Hoch stole the cattle from two farmers in 2023 and falsified vendor documents to sell them to two of Victoria's largest meat processing companies.

Court documents reveal that 29 of the stolen cattle, valued at $44,503.30, were taken from a farm in Warrnambool on August 26, 2023. These cattle belonged to Mason Fehring, nephew of former United Dairy Farmers of Victoria president Max Fehring.

The magistrates court was informed that the charges against Hoch may be withdrawn if the farmers who had their cattle allegedly stolen agree to a remuneration deal. However, as of now, the victims are not willing to accept payment. A court representative, Mr Pogue, stated, "We're waiting to resolve the issue in relation to potential restitution, that would then resolve the matter."

This marks the fifth time Hoch's theft and deception case has been brought before the court. The prosecution has offered to withdraw the charges contingent on partial remuneration of the out-of-pocket losses.

Sources