Stolen Tractor Leads to Multi-Day Investigation, Search Warrant and Multiple Recoveries in Brazoria County

BRAZORIA, Texas – A stolen tractor linked to a Jim Wells County investigation sparked a multi-day operation that ultimately led to the recovery of multiple stolen vehicles and the arrest of a suspect outside Brazoria, according to the Precinct 4 Constable’s Office.

The case began on Monday, November 17, when Precinct 4 deputies were contacted by the Precinct 3 Constable’s Office in Jim Wells County. Investigators there believed a tractor tied to their active theft case might be located at a home in the 7200 block of County Road 400, and that the suspect could be on the property. A Precinct 4 sergeant checked the location but was unable to find the equipment.

Three days later, on Thursday, November 20, Jim Wells County investigators called again after receiving information from a neighbor who claimed to know where the tractor might be. As the sergeant drove to meet the neighbor, he spotted the tractor sitting in the backyard of the same residence, which is not fenced. Deputies attempted to speak with occupants at the home, but no one answered the door.

A closer look at the tractor showed its VIN had been ground off the frame, a common tactic used to conceal stolen equipment. Jim Wells County investigators provided identifying details that allowed deputies to confirm it was the same tractor stolen out of Travis County in July.

Later that afternoon, deputies received information that a travel trailer parked on the property might also be stolen. The registered owner told Jim Wells County authorities he believed his RV was still in storage in Corpus Christi. Deputies then worked with the Brazoria County District Attorney’s Office to secure a search warrant for the property.

The warrant was signed at about 3:25 p.m. and executed shortly after with help from Precinct 1 deputies and the DA’s Office. Four individuals were detained while deputies searched the property. The travel trailer was recovered, and no additional stolen property was found at that time. Three people were released. The man suspected in the tractor theft was arrested on existing felony theft and criminal trespass warrants from Jim Wells County and booked into the Brazoria County Jail.

The investigation took another turn the following day. On Friday, November 21, deputies were notified that a truck seen on the property during the search was now being reported stolen out of Jim Wells County. Deputies returned to the home and recovered the vehicle.

Officials say the investigation remains active and additional charges may be filed. Precinct 4 leadership thanked the Brazoria County DA’s Office, the Precinct 1 Constable’s Office and the Jim Wells County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office for their assistance throughout the operation.