Stolen UTV & Skid Steer Recovered in Dramatic Branch County Bust
Thieves’ Joyride Ends in Arrest After High-Stakes Chase
In a swift operation, Branch County deputies recovered a stolen utility terrain vehicle (UTV) and skid steer loader, arresting two suspects who allegedly tried to make off with the heavy equipment. The incident, which unfolded near Union City, highlights the growing trend of construction equipment theft across rural Michigan.
How the Theft Unfolded
- Deputies responded to a late-night alarm at a construction site on Monday.
- Witnesses reported seeing a trailer hauling a skid steer matching the stolen description.
- A high-visibility Polaris UTV was also taken from the same location.
The Arrest
- Officers tracked the suspects using road surveillance cameras.
- A traffic stop near the Indiana state line led to the recovery of both stolen vehicles.
- Two men, ages 34 and 41, are now facing felony theft charges.
Why Equipment Theft Is Surging in Rural America
This case reflects a national problem: heavy machinery thefts increased 23% last year according to National Equipment Register data. "These aren’t joyrides—it’s organized crime," said Sheriff John Monroe. "Thieves target equipment that can be quickly repainted and resold out of state."
Protecting Your Equipment
- Install GPS trackers on all high-value machinery
- Park equipment in well-lit areas with surveillance cameras
- Engrave identifying marks that can’t be ground off easily
What Do You Think?
- Should construction companies be required to use GPS trackers on all equipment over $25K?
- Are punishment for equipment theft too lenient compared to other property crimes?
- Could this surge in thefts be tied to the rise of online marketplaces for used machinery?
- Would you support a national equipment registry with mandatory reporting?
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