Timber Thefts Lead to Multiple Felony Charges

Brandon Lyddon, Conservation Agent
Conservation Agents with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and cooperating agencies have conducted multiple investigations of walnut timber theft in three counties. These investigations have led to multiple felony and misdemeanor charges against eight suspects. Most of the thefts were from public land in the Truman Lake area, although some thefts on private land were also reported.

According to Protection District Supervisor Joni Bledsoe, the overall saw log value of the 72 stolen walnut trees was $61,804. These trees were taken off public lands in Henry, Benton, St. Clair, and Vernon counties. Bledsoe also noted the trees had a scenic value to people and a food and habitat value for wildlife.

Search warrants were executed and the following was discovered: a heavy-duty winch and bracket stolen from a commercial tree service truck, valued at $6,300; batteries stolen from MDC bulldozers, plus damage to the equipment, valued at $1,590, a chain saw stolen from a sawmill in Polk County valued at $810, another chainsaw stolen in Cedar County valued at $810, a tailgate stolen in an El Dorado Springs theft, and multiple smaller items stolen in Henry County thefts.

Thus far, eight individuals have been arrested. The felony charges filed to date in Henry, Benton, and St. Clair counties include: fourteen counts stealing, three counts of property damage, three counts of receiving stolen property, and one count of possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine). Eight misdemeanor charges have also been filed. MDC and other law enforcement agencies continue to investigate additional timber thefts throughout the state.

To report conservation violations you can contact Missouri Conservation Agents directly (numbers on MDC website) or by calling the county or state dispatch center. You can also call the OGT (Operation Game Thief) 24 hour hotline at 1-800-392-1111, you can remain anonymous and rewards are possible.