According to Kiernan Donahue, a leader with the National Sheriff's Association, high prices and record inflation are behind a recent uptick in rural thefts. As a result, many Sheriff departments are increasing patrols in rural areas. "A lot of these thieves are hitting the rural areas because there's not the presence of law enforcement like we have in our urban areas," Donahue said. "They take advantage of that."
Donahue says suspects have been stealing copper wire from farms with pivot irrigation systems. "They will strip it down to the copper and burn the excess stuff," he said. "They will take that copper wire to these salvage yards and turn over that copper wire for a premium price."
Nodaway County, Missouri Sheriff Randy Strong says fuel thefts are another concern. "A lot of farmers have fuel tanks with diesel or gasoline on the farms," Strong said. "I would recommend that they watch those very closely. Put padlocks on them and probably a security camera."
To report a tip about an agriculture crime, farmers, ranchers or anyone with knowledge of a crime can contact the Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force hotline at (888) 484-8477. Calls are taken 24 hours a day, and callers may remain anonymous.
Editor’s Take:
This is not the first time such a phenomenon has occurred. When prices are historically high it creates the temptation to gather the low hanging fruit, so to speak. Many farms or ranches are not well lighted or protected, thus, creating a perfect opportunity for thieves.
The last time such activity was rampant, many law enforcement agencies were slow to react. Some states eventually enacted legislation which increased penalties for such burglaries. But even that did not address another problem – even if the thieves were caught, depending on the amount stolen, the perpetrators would get off with just a slap on the wrist.
It is also a good idea for law enforcement to keep a close eye on businesses who purchase products like copper, etc. in their normal line of business and to make certain they have accurate records. If warranted, stiff fines should be given to such businesses who knowingly participate in the crime.
All that said, perhaps you can notify farmers and ranchers in your area to be on the lookout for such activity. A seminar in conjunction with law enforcement officials could prove to be very beneficial in alerting and educating them on how to protect their property. This is a very serious matter!
