Damaging Fields is a Criminal Mischief Charge
While we are always thankful for the rain we receive we would like to remind our citizens that it is illegal to go “mudding” after these rains and cause damage to property that does not belong to you. Since the rain received last week we have taken several reports from farmers in the Geronimo area of their fields being torn up by “mudders” in four wheel drive vehicles. While these incidents happened in that area we tend to get numerous reports all over the county for similar damage after we receive rain. We ask that all who wish to do this be aware that you will be charged with criminal mischief if you are identified. If our deputies catch you in the act you will be arrested and your vehicle will be impounded. Criminal Mischief can range anywhere from a class c misdemeanor to a felony depending on the dollar amount of damage caused.
Our farmers and ranchers put in countless hours and spend thousands of dollars on fuel and seed in order to try and make a profit and this damage can put their livelihood at risk. Taxpayers also foot the bill of unplanned repairs when this same damage occurs on county easements. Parents please educate your young drivers and make sure they understand and know the consequences of what they face when they are caught doing this.
If anyone has information about these incidents or any similar incidents that have occurred we encourage you to call the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office at 830-379-1224.
If you would like to submit tips anonymously, call the Guadalupe County Crime Stoppers tip line at 1-877-403-8477(TIPS), submit a tip online, or use the P3Tips app on your phone. You could eligible to receive up to a $1000 reward.
View original post from the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office.