Assistance From The Public Requested in Louisiana Trespassing and Chemical Vandalism Case Resulting in Loss of $17K and Property Damage
Grant Parish, Louisiana – The public is requested to assist in a case of trespassing and chemical vandalism in Louisiana which resulted in a loss of $17K and property damage.
On May 1, 2023, the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) revealed that agents with the Livestock Brand Commission, in collaboration with the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, are seeking the public’s aid in an agricultural chemicals vandalism case in Grant Parish.
On April 18, property workers discovered Glufosinate and Glyphosate pesticides on the ground in an agricultural field on the east side of the 700 block of Hwy 158 near Colfax, Louisiana. Reported indicated that some of the chemicals may have been taken.
The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office asked the LDAF Livestock Brand Commission’s assistance with an inquiry into criminal trespass and property destruction that resulted in the loss of pesticides valued at $17,000. In addition, the LDAF Pesticide and Environmental Programs Division is aiding with the cleanup of pesticide spills.
“The LDAF’s Livestock Brand Commission is committed to holding perpetrators responsible for this kind of senseless vandalism,” said Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry Mike Strain, D.V.M. “Not only can their actions create hazards for the environment, but they also contribute to the loss of money, time, and energy for the affected landowner.”
Authorities are asking that anyone with information about this crime call the LDAF Livestock Brand Commission at 1-800-558-9741 or the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-627-3261. Authorities indicated that the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office website, www.grantso.org, also allows for anonymous reporting.
Authorities indicated that you can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward if your information leads to the arrest and conviction of the individual(s) responsible. The Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation and the Louisiana Cattlemen’s Association are offering the prize.
A person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.