GUADALUPE COUNTY, TEXAS — Authorities in Texas say a monthslong investigation has uncovered an alleged organized theft operation targeting loaded semi-trailers at public grain bins across the state.
The Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation began March 11 after a grain theft was reported on Barbarossa Road in Guadalupe County.
Investigation Started With One Grain Theft Complaint
Investigators said witness statements and other evidence from the initial complaint led them to an alleged network involving stolen semi-trailer loads of grain from public grain bins in multiple Texas counties.
Authorities said the operation involved the unauthorized removal of loaded semi-trailers from public grain bins.
So far, investigators have identified about 176 stolen loads of grain totaling approximately 9.1 million pounds.
The estimated value of the stolen grain is $791,739.
Three Suspects Arrested
Authorities said three suspects have been arrested in connection with the investigation.
Pablo Franco Jr., 46, was arrested in Atascosa County.
Ricky Regalado, 52, was arrested in Smiley.
Larry Regalado, 57, was arrested in New Braunfels.
Each suspect faces Guadalupe County charges of theft of property valued at more than $300,000, engaging in organized criminal activity, and stealing or receiving stolen grain.
The theft and organized criminal activity charges are first-degree felonies. The stealing or receiving stolen grain charge is a second-degree felony.
Investigation Expanded Across Texas
The investigation began in Guadalupe County but expanded into a multi-agency statewide effort.
Agencies involved include 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.
Guadalupe County Sheriff Joshua Ray said the case shows how one local report can grow into a larger investigation.
“This started with one complaint in Guadalupe County,” Ray said. “Our investigators stayed with it, built the case and brought in partners across Texas.”
Additional Arrests Expected
Investigators have not released specific facility names or additional operational details because the case remains active.
Authorities said additional suspects remain at large and more arrests are expected.
Anyone who believes they lost grain or has information about others involved is asked to contact the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office at 830-379-1224.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Guadalupe County Crime Stoppers at 1-877-403-8477, online, or through the P3 Tips app.
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