The RCMP has charged a man in connection to a series of agricultural equipment thefts. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

CRIME

Man charged with thefts of irrigation equipment in southern Alberta

Jul 22, 2025 | 1:07 PM

The RCMP says it has charged a man who is accused in multiple cases of stealing agricultural equipment.

In May 2025, members of the RCMP Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit investigated a recent series of damage to and theft from irrigation pivots from various farms.

The thefts reportedly began in Wheatland County, and the investigation led to a suspect being identified.

Early in the morning on Wednesday, July 16, officers say they observed the suspect allegedly stealing irrigation equipment in Newell County.

The RCMP alleges that the suspect fled the area in a vehicle at an “extremely high rate of speed.”

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The suspect was located in Brooks, where he reportedly continued to flee on foot before being arrested.

Their investigation determined that the same person was allegedly involved in additional irrigation equipment thefts from farms in the region, including within the M.D. of Taber.

A 31-year old Vauxhall man is charged with:

• Five counts of theft over $5,000
• Five counts of mischief over $5,000
• Four counts of possession of break-in tools
• Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle
• Theft under $5,000

Following a bail hearing, the man was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court in Medicine Hat on Aug. 6.