Coldwater, MI – A major equipment theft at a Branch County construction site has led to the recovery of over $100,000 in stolen property and the seizure of illegal drugs, local officials announced.
According to the Branch County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded Saturday to a report of a break-in at the Branch Solar construction site. Two individuals were found attempting to free a truck stuck in the mud. A trailer hitched to the truck was carrying a stolen Polaris Ranger, valued around $35,000.
Further investigation led deputies to a stolen CAT skid steer worth $119,000. Authorities said the suspects had forcibly breached the site’s fencing to remove the equipment. Damage to the machinery was estimated at $6,500.
Deputies later executed a search warrant at a nearby residence tied to the suspects, where they found more stolen property and methamphetamine.
One person was booked at the Branch County Jail on suspicion of possessing stolen property, with additional charges pending for property damage and drug-related offenses.
Authorities said the incident highlights the risk property crimes pose to construction projects and business investments. The sheriff’s office reaffirmed its commitment to public safety through strong enforcement and regional cooperation.
Be sure to follow us on Instagram & like us on Facebook to stay up-to-date on more relevant news stories and SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have something you’d like to let us know about? Message us on our social channels and let us know about it!
