Police in Minnesota said they arrested two teenagers in connection with the thefts of 17 calves from barns in three counties.

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Stearns County Sheriff John Sanner said Jesse Robert Ronsberg, 19, of Rothsay, and a 16-year-old Barnesville boy, whose name was not released, were arrested after deputies received a tip about the location of the calves, which were taken from barns in Stearns, Todd and Douglas counties, the St. Cloud (Minn.) Times reported Monday.

Investigators said the suspects told them they were planning to use the pilfered cattle to start their own farm and dairy operation.

The cattle were returned to their owners.

Ronsberg was taken to the Wilkin County Jail and the 16-year-old was released to his parents.