Harder Statement on Criminals Stealing Bees and Livestock from California Farmers

Reports show criminals are stealing livestock and expensive equipment like tractors from farms and spiking beehive thefts threaten the entire agriculture industry

Over the summer, criminals broke into a Lodi winegrape grower’s shop and stole tools and important equipment

WASHINGTON – Today, Representative Josh Harder (CA-9) released the following statement on recent reports about criminals stealing beehives, agricultural equipment, livestock, and other mission-critical materials from farmers and ranchers in California.

“Criminals are really sinking to new lows. Stealing honeybees and livestock? Law enforcement is already stretched thin with sideshows and carjackings, the last thing we need is thieves endangering our region’s economic engine and our food supply. Please, if you see something suspicious, report it to local law enforcement.”

Central Valley farmers grow 40% of the country’s fruit and nuts – including 80% of all U.S. almonds. Honeybees are essential to pollinating and growing California’s almonds, but farmers depend on millions of rented honeybees because there aren’t enough local native honeybee colonies. The criminals who are stealing honeybees, livestock, and equipment are harming farmers and ranchers, threatening the local economy, and putting our country’s food supply at risk. The San Joaquin Sheriff’s Office recommends reporting suspicious activity to their non-emergency phone number at (209) 406-4424.

This continues Rep. Harder’s work to support Central Valley farmers, crack down on rising theft, and get law enforcement the resources they need to protect our communities. 

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