“On 7-11-2024, Sheriff’s Deputies along with members of the Sheriff’s Rural Crime Unit responded to a report of two men who were actively stealing avocados from a ranch in rural Nipomo.
When Deputies arrived on scene, they were able to locate the suspects along with approximately 500 pounds of stolen avocados. The avocados were estimated to be worth between $3,000 – $5,000. Theft of avocados from this ranch have been an ongoing issue.
The suspects were arrested and booked into County Jail. Wilson Carrero, 38, of Santa Maria was arrested for felony grand theft along with possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled substance.
Baltazar Garcia, 40, of Santa Maria was arrested for felony grand theft.
The Sheriff’s Office is committed to investigating agriculture crimes. If you’ve been the victim of a rural crime contact the Sheriff’s Office at 805-781-4550.”
