28 people arrested for stealing tractors from farmers in Ventura County

During an operation over the weekend, officers arrested 28 people to find those responsible for a series of break-ins on farms in Ventura County.

The raid came after several break-ins on farms near Camarillo and Oxnard. Farmers reported more thefts and stolen tractors than usual in August, but officials were unable to locate the suspects or the farm equipment.

When Ventura County Sheriff's Office investigators found the stolen tractors, they were typically completely destroyed and missing batteries, wires and other electrical components.

With no leads, officers combed the area with police forces between August 16 and 18. During the operation, they arrested 28 people for various offenses, seized two stolen tractors and developed new leads on other suspects.

Some of the suspects were in possession of some of the allegedly stolen property when they were arrested by officers.

Investigators expect to arrest more people soon.

Meanwhile, MPs recommended that farmers remove and hide the keys to their farm equipment, especially tractors. In addition, farmers should consider putting Owner Applied Number System markings on their parts, batteries and other equipment so that the items can be easily identified in case of theft.

Officials urged anyone with information about the series of burglaries to contact investigators at (805) 388-5100. The sheriff's office also urged anyone who witnesses a theft to call 911 or the department's communications center at (805) 654-9511.