[Montgomery, Ala.] Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Agricultural & Rural Crime Unit (ARCU) recovered 11 pieces of farm equipment totaling $489,041 that was stolen from six different states including Fla., La., Miss., Ark., Tenn. and N.C.
ARCU agents arrested Jody D. Morgan, 53, and Steven Ray Parker, 38, both of Albertville, for receiving stolen property first-degree. Both men were booked at the Etowah County Detention Center with additional charges pending in Marshall County. Parker has been released on bond and Morgan is still being held Etowah County Detention Center.
“Our agents specialize in agricultural and rural crimes and work closely with local law enforcement throughout the state,” said ARCU Commander Gene Wiggins. Over the past 12 months, ARCU agents have investigated over 100 cases and recovered more than $2 million in stolen property.
The ARCU partners with local law enforcement to investigate agriculture and rural crimes such as theft of farm animals, farm equipment, fraud, and agroterrorism. Under a directive from Governor Robert Bentley, the ARCU was the first unit established as part of the consolidation of state law enforcement agencies and works directly out of the Office of the Secretary of Law Enforcement. Many counties have offered rewards to those that can provide leads tied to these cases. In addition, the Alabama Cattlemen’s Association offers a $1,000 reward to anyone providing information leading to the arrest and conviction of someone caught stealing cattle from one of its member’s farm. To report a Rural Crime or to provide a tip call 1-855-75CRIME.
-30-
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) was created by Act 2013-67 and represents the consolidation and realignment of 12 state law enforcement agencies/functions into one entity. ALEA is currently in a transition period, and upon full implementation on January 1, 2015, will be responsible for the functions and missions of the Alabama Department of Homeland Security, Department of Public Safety, Alabama Bureau of Investigation, Fusion Center, Criminal Justice Information Center, Marine Police, Alcoholic Beverage Control Board Enforcement, Department of Revenue Enforcement, Forestry Commission Investigations, Agricultural and Industry Investigations, Public Service Commission Enforcement, and Office of Prosecution Service Computer Forensics Lab.
Fatality
No
