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The Agricultural Crimes Unit conducts investigations involving the agricultural community. This includes thefts of farm equipment and related machinery from plant nurseries, citrus groves, and farm ranches. In addition, the unit investigates cases of animal theft, cruelty and neglect of animals, dog and chicken fighting and game violations.
This unit has also been tasked by Sheriff Beary to establish and assume a leadership role in establishing the Regional Agricultural Task Force. The Unit provides other Units within the Sheriff’s Office with assistance or support. Examples of this would be, the Homicide Unit when looking for homicide victims in off-road areas and the Auto Theft Unit when looking for stolen or stripped vehicles. We plan and conduct annual countywide marijuana eradication projects. The Agriculture Crimes Unit are the first responders during natural disasters, such as tornadoes and hurricanes.
With the diversity of experience and knowledge they are able to assist Farmers and Agriculture Businesses with most concerns while projecting the professional image of the Orange County Sheriff's Office.
With the use of Nextel phones, Farmers and Ranchers are able to stay in contact with members of this unit, in a partnership commonly known as the Rural Enforcement Communications Network. This close working relationship between Law Enforcement and the Agriculture Community is a very valuable crime prevention tool in the rural areas of Orange County.
The Agricultural Crimes Unit also serves as a support Unit for the Uniform Patrol Division. They are called on in situations when four wheel-drive vehicles are needed. Unit members receive specialized training in the operation of ATV’s, airboats, chain saws, animal identification/handling, as well as enforcement of horticulture identification, and game and fish violations.
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