An unnamed rustler, alongside two other rustlers (including Barry) were responsible for a series of burglaries on numerous farms in Beckindale in March and April 1983. In April, Jack Sugden waited out in a paddock for the rustlers (against Sgt. MacArthur's advice) and Jack took one hostage. The other rustlers fled whilst the remaining rustler had a brutal fight which resulted in Jack smacking one over the head with a rock. The rustler ended up in intensive care but he made a full recovery and was arrested and charged.