GUADALUPE COUNTY, Texas — A multi-agency investigation has uncovered an alleged organized operation that stole about 176 loads of grain worth an estimated $791,739 from grain facilities across Texas, authorities said.
The Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office began investigating March 11 after receiving a report of grain theft on Barbarossa Road. Investigators said witness statements and other evidence eventually led them to a network that allegedly stole semi-trailer loads of grain from public grain bins in several Texas counties.
Authorities estimate the operation involved about 9.1 million pounds of stolen grain.
Three men have been arrested in connection with the investigation: Pablo Franco Jr., 46, of Atascosa County; Ricky Regalado, 52, of Smiley; and Larry Regalado, 57, of New Braunfels.
Each faces charges in Guadalupe County for theft of property valued at more than $300,000, a first-degree felony; engaging in organized criminal activity, a first-degree felony; and stealing or receiving stolen grain, a second-degree felony.
Investigators allege the suspects unlawfully removed loaded semi-trailers from public grain bins. Authorities have not released the names of specific facilities or other details about how the alleged operation worked because the investigation remains active.
The investigation expanded beyond Guadalupe County with assistance from the Texas Department of Agriculture, Texas Department of Public Safety, sheriff’s offices in Navarro, Ellis, Williamson and Frio counties, and the Taylor Police Department.
Sheriff Joshua Ray said investigators expanded the case after following leads from the initial theft report.
“This started with one complaint in Guadalupe County,” Ray said. “Our investigators stayed with it, built the case and brought in partners across Texas.”
Authorities expect additional arrests as the investigation continues.
Anyone who believes they lost grain or has information about the alleged operation can contact the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office at 830-379-1224.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Guadalupe County Crime Stoppers at 1-877-403-8477, through guadalupecountycrimestoppers.org or through the P3 Tips app. Tips may qualify for a cash reward.
