Nixon: Rural crimes task force recovered almost $3 million since 2009

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- A Missouri rural crime task force has recovered more than $2.8 million since 2009, including $350,000 from a single investigation into missing tractor equipment in southwest Missouri.

Speaking at the State Fair in Sedalia on Thursday, Gov. Jay Nixon announced the progress of the Missouri State Highway Patrol's Rural Crimes Investigative Unit -- a cooperative effort with local sheriffs, farmers, cattlemen and pork producers to target the theft of livestock, farm equipment and other property in Missouri's 97 rural-designated counties.

As of Aug. 15, the unit had investigated 891 incidents, been involved in the arrest of 182 suspects and recovered $2.87 million in stolen property.

Col. Ron Replogle, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol said the task force combines statewide resources with local presence.

"The task force and RCIU are perfect for intelligence sharing and for directing additional investigative resources into an area that might be experiencing a rise in criminal activity," Replogle said.

The Livestock and Farm Protection Task Force and RCIU encourage tips from the public to the Rural Crime Tip Line (888-484-8477). Tips about rural crime may be made anonymously. Calls are taken 24 hours a day.