GRANVILLE COUNTY ANIMAL MANAGEMENT: The usually quiet community of Stem recently had its peace disturbed when an elusive and mischievous goat embarked on a solo adventure, leaving residents and Animal Control officers scratching their heads. Little did they know, this wasn’t just any stray goat—but a master escape
artist with the agility of a ninja.

It all started with a report to Granville County Animal Control about a stray goat spotted in the area. Officers rushed to the scene, but when they arrived the goat had already vanished just as mysteriously as it had appeared; all while making a mockery out of all attempts to capture it by residents.

Animal Control decided to set up a corral and feeding station to tempt the goat into being contained long enough so that it could be detained. The corral was set up by Officer William “Billy” Spain. It quickly attracted the goat, and officers immediately saw what locals had already informed them; this goat was a master of evasive maneuvers. Residents and officers watched in disbelief as the goat—who could only be described as a Houdini with hooves—escaped from the makeshift corral like a pro. Maybe the Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.)?

After realizing they had encountered a truly formidable opponent, officers modified the corral by reinforcing weak spots and ensuring there were no gaps large enough for the goat to squeeze through. After some intense work, he was finally detained. "It was like trying to catch a whirlwind," Officer Spain laughed. "But in the end, we
got the G.O.A.T."

The goat has been placed at Blind Spot Animal Sanctuary in Rougemont and is now named Billy, after his captor. And Officer Billy Spain is now officially known as the G.O.A.T.