HARDEE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
Agriculture Crime Prevention
A message from the Sheriff....
"Agriculture is the major industry in our county, and by far encompasses the largest area of square miles. The Sheriff's Office is committed to the ranchers, growers and related businesses of agriculture. This web page was provided to assist you in helping us identify, report, investigate and prevent agriculture related crimes."
J. Loran Cogburn, Sheriff
AGRICULTURAL CRIME PREVENTION TIPS:
Brand fruit tubs and tires with I.D. numbers.
Stamp or braise I.D. numbers on equipment and machinery.
When leaving fruit trailer in the field back them with their tailgates together to prevent theft or dumping of fruit.
Install a hidden in-line fuel cut off on tractors and grove equipment.
Keep fences in good repair and place "NO TRESPASSING" signs in visible locations.
Brand cattle and keep records of your livestock.
Secure any small tools and equipment that is easy to carry.
Keep barns and storage area locked and well lit at night.
Install gates where they cannot be taken off the hinges.
Limit access to your properties and check frequently.
Report any suspicious activity to the Sheriff's Office immediately.
SHERIFF'S OFFICE AGRICULTURE HOTLINE: 863-773-0304 XT.399
This number and extension is exclusive of the Sheriff's Office Agriculture Investigations and Enforcement Divisions. The line is dedicated to farmers, ranchers, and harvesters enabling them to contact the Sheriff's Office 24 hours a day. The caller is encouraged to leave specific information about where they are currently working or harvesting along with contact information. This will enable Sheriff's Office to provide increased patrols in that area.
THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE IDENTIFICATION AND SIGN PROGRAM:
The Sheriff's Office offers an identification number program for property and equipment. This number is unique and can be traced directly to a specific company or ranch.
The Sheriff's Office also offers "NO TRESPASSING" signs to help identify your property and warn against trespass. This also allows for easier identification by law enforcement. These signs can be obtained from the Sheriff's Posse for a small fee of $12.00.
SHERIFF'S OFFICE AGRICULTURE CRIME UNIT:
The Sheriff's Office has two deputies who are assigned to agriculture and are responsible for investigating agriculture related crimes in the county.
Sgt. Everett Lovett began his career with the Hardee County Sheriff's Office in August of 1980 as an auxiliary officer. Sgt. Lovett was assigned to the Ag Unit in October of 2001. He carries with him the experience and knowledge of 27 years of agricultural related work, specifically in citrus.
Sgt. James Adler began his career with the Hardee County Sheriff's Office in July of 2000. Sgt. Adler was assigned to the Ag Unit in Feb. 2005. He brings with him the experience of growing up in an agricultural based home with knowledge in the area of livestock.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS:
Agriculture Information Line: 863-773-0304 xt.399
Sheriff J. Loran Cogburn: 863-773-0304 xt.209
NON-EMERGENCY REPORT: 863-773-4144
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY DIAL 9-1-1