MALTB investigators recover stolen property from Coahoma County

Photo: Recent MALTB investigation into stolen property from a farming operation in Coahoma County led to the recovery of equipment with an approximate value of $4,000 in Shelby County, Tennessee. (Courtesy photo)

A recent investigation by the Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau (MALTB) into stolen property from a farming operation in Coahoma County, Mississippi, led to the recovery of equipment with an approximate value of $4,000 in Shelby County, Tennessee.

On Friday, Sept. 1, a Coahoma County farmer reported a trailer loaded with a tote container of Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) and pumping system to the MALTB. The next day, Saturday, Sept. 2, leads were developed, and a possible suspect was identified.

Early Sunday morning, MALTB investigators along with Shelby County Deputies located the stolen items at a residence in Shelby County, Tennessee. Investigators were able to recover the stolen items.

“This is an ongoing investigation; suspects have been identified and charges will be forthcoming,” said MALTB Director Dean Barnard. “I want to thank all of the law enforcement involved for working the long hours that led to this recovery.”

Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson said, “I am proud of the swift action of the Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau investigators that led to the recovery of this property across the state line. Quick recoveries like this allow our producers to get back to work.”

The Mississippi Agricultural and Livestock Theft Bureau, the law enforcement division of the Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce, enforces state laws pertaining to the theft of cattle, horses, swine, poultry, fish, farm equipment, chemicals, timber and all other farm or agriculture-related crimes. Visit http://msagtheft.org/ to learn more about the MALTB.