Arkansas Department of Agriculture Expands Law Enforcement to Safeguard State Producers
Efforts to Protect Farmers and Ranchers from Agricultural Crimes Intensify
Law Enforcement Team Created in 2019
To address the diverse needs of Arkansas’ agricultural sector, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture has expanded its law enforcement capabilities. Established in 2019, the Law Enforcement Team is dedicated to investigating and preventing agricultural crimes, which can have significant impacts on both the local and national food supplies.
Protecting Arkansas’ Diverse Agricultural Industry
The team’s jurisdiction covers a wide range of agricultural sectors, including forestry, livestock, and plant industries. Common investigations include wildfire arson, timber theft, livestock theft, and agricultural equipment theft or vandalism. By providing specialized support, they help address property crimes that might otherwise be overlooked by traditional law enforcement agencies.
Collaboration with Local, State, and Federal Agencies
The Law Enforcement Team works closely with local and county law enforcement agencies, providing assistance and expertise to ensure that cases are thoroughly investigated and prosecuted when necessary. Moreover, they collaborate with agencies in neighboring states like Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Missouri, and Mississippi to track down stolen property and criminals who cross state lines.
Specialized Expertise and Community Ties
The team members, many of whom have agricultural backgrounds, are uniquely positioned to understand the specific needs and concerns of local farmers and ranchers. This specialized knowledge allows them to tailor their efforts to serve the agricultural community effectively. With their roots in the heart of Arkansas, they have a deep understanding of the importance of agriculture to the state’s economy and the people it supports.
Expand the Law Enforcement Capabilities to Meet the Growing Needs of the Industry
In response to the evolving threats faced by Arkansas farmers and ranchers, the department has expanded its law enforcement capabilities. By enhancing their resources and expertise, they aim to ensure that agricultural crimes are vigorously pursued and that the state’s agricultural sector continues to thrive.
Complementing Traditional Law Enforcement Efforts
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Law Enforcement Team serves as an assistant agency, providing backup support to overloaded local law enforcement agencies. By focusing on agricultural crimes, they help alleviate the burden on traditional law enforcement and ensure that property crimes are given due attention.
