Location: 20000 block of Road 140, Tulare
Incident Date: 10/25/17
Incident Time: 1125 hours
Case Number: 17-13077
Victim: Ludy Farms
City: Tulare
Posted by: Media Relations
*************************UPDATE**************************************
On 10-28-17, Ag Crimes Investigators continued to search for the above listed equipment. As a result of networking with local farmers and ranchers as well as allied agencies, the tractor and grape gondola were found approximately eight miles from where it was taken. It was found in working order and was subsequently returned to its owner.
Detectives processed the equipment and located evidence that will also be further processed. This investigation is ongoing as leads continue to develop.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Detective R. Gunderman or Sgt. Chad Rhyman with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Ag Crimes Investigations Unit at (559) 735-1898. They can also call 24 hours a day at (559) 733-6218 or anonymously, by accessing the TipNow page at tcso@tipnow.com.
***************************Original Press Release*******************
On 10-25-17, Deputies from the Sheriff's Porterville Substation were contacted regarding the report of a suspected theft. Upon arrival, they were advised that an employee of Ludy Farms, identified as Rojelio Sanchez, was last seen driving a John Deere tractor attached to a Grape Gondola used to harvest wine grapes. Deputies were able to detain Sanchez and Ag Crimes Detectives were contacted.
Detectives responded to the scene and contacted Sanchez. Through their investigation, Sanchez was found to have several active warrants in Kern and Tulare Counties and was arrested pursuant to them. At this time, the tractor and gondola are still missing, however Sanchez is known to have been the last person in possession of them.
Loss is estimated to be $60,000.
The case remains active and Detectives are actively following leads.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Detective R. Gunderman or Sgt. Chad Rhyman with the Tulare County Sheriff’s Agricultural Crimes Investigations Unit at (559) 735-1898. They can also call 24 hours a day at (559) 733-6218 or anonymously, by accessing the TipNow page at tcso@tipnow.com or (559) 725-4194.