Sheriff Bob Bartlett is called away from the rodeo to apprehend cattle rustlers. His deputy, Tom Morrison, is shot in an ambush by rustler Luke Grimes, and the rustlers, including Bob's pal Russ Whitley, get away. Suspicious of Russ's connections with the gang led by Heck Claibourne, Bob will not act without proof. Community leader Lem Walker insinuates that Bob is reluctant to round up the rustlers because of his friendship with Russ. The arrival of Bat Morrison, Tom's brother, makes matters tense, especially when Bat is appointed deputy sheriff and insists that Bob arrest the rustler who shot his brother. Bob, Bat and Walker are arresting Luke Grime when Bat suddenly shoots him. Diane Allen blames the unwarranted shooting on Bob.