28 Arrested for Tractor Thefts in Ventura County

In a significant operation aimed at addressing a surge in burglaries at Ventura County farms, deputies arrested 28 individuals over the weekend. The crackdown followed a series of thefts reported by farmers in the Camarillo and Oxnard areas, where incidents of stolen tractors and equipment had increased notably throughout August. Investigators noted that the stolen tractors were often found stripped of essential components, complicating efforts to track down the culprits. The operation, conducted from August 16 to 18, involved a concentrated law enforcement presence in the affected areas. During this time, deputies not only apprehended 28 suspects for various infractions but also recovered two stolen tractors and gathered new leads on additional suspects. Some of those arrested were found in possession of suspected stolen property, prompting investigators to anticipate further arrests in the near future. In light of the ongoing thefts, deputies have advised farmers to take precautionary measures, such as removing and concealing keys to their equipment, particularly tractors. They also recommended that farmers etch their equipment with identifying marks using the "Owner Applied Number system" to facilitate recovery in the event of theft. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding the burglaries to reach out to the Ventura County Sheriff's Office at (805) 388-5100. Additionally, they encourage witnesses to any thefts to immediately contact 911 or the agency's communications center at (805) 654-9511.