Rensselaer, IN – A months-long investigation into a multi-state theft operation has resulted in the recovery of more than $500,000 in stolen equipment and criminal charges in Indiana.
According to the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office, numerous items—including an International semi-truck, Caterpillar mini excavator, multiple skid steers, a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado, and trailers—were reported stolen from sites across Jasper County over the past month. Detectives later traced the stolen machinery to locations in Putnam County.
A search warrant was executed with the assistance of the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators recovered stolen property linked not only to Jasper County but also to thefts across Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri. Officials say the theft ring targeted valuable agricultural and construction equipment.
Scott D. Rector, 54, of Winamac, Indiana, was identified as the primary suspect and is now facing charges related to the thefts. Roy W. Poynter, 46, of Russellville, Indiana, was also arrested in connection to the operation.
Detectives estimate the total value of recovered property tied to the Jasper County portion of the theft ring exceeds $500,000. The ongoing investigation indicates the criminal enterprise spans several counties including White, Vigo, Clay, Newton, and Tippecanoe in Indiana, with the possibility of additional counties and suspects involved.
The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office thanked the sheriff’s departments in Putnam, Clay, and Pulaski counties for their cooperation and support in advancing the investigation.
Authorities emphasized that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court, and additional arrests may be forthcoming as the case develops.
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