The Lee County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Crimes Unit provides law enforcement services to rural and agricultural communities throughout Lee County. The unit investigates agricultural-related crimes, including theft of livestock and equipment, livestock at large, livestock cruelty or abuse, trespassing, vandalism, and other agricultural offenses.
Members of the unit respond to reports of livestock theft, secure “at large” farm animals, investigate allegations of cruelty to or abuse of livestock, and respond to Florida Black Bear sightings. Deputies also issue warnings regarding flawed or damaged fencing that could allow the escape of farm animals and assist with emergency repairs to open fencing when necessary.
Due to the unique nature of agricultural and rural environments, deputies assigned to this unit receive specialized training and possess the knowledge and equipment necessary to effectively patrol rural areas, investigate incidents, and respond to agricultural-related calls for service. The unit maintains strong working relationships with farmers, ranchers, agricultural business owners, and agricultural organizations throughout the county.
In addition to investigative responsibilities, the Agricultural Crimes Unit inspects citrus fruit haulers to ensure required permits, licenses, and records are present and valid. Deputies patrol conservation and rural areas of the county and participate in the development and implementation of agricultural crime-prevention policies and programs.
Members of the unit also represent the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at agricultural associations, meetings, and community events, strengthening partnerships with local agricultural stakeholders and promoting public safety within the agricultural community.
The Agricultural Crimes Unit developed the Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue Team, a specialized response group composed of multiple agencies from Region VI, including Lee, Highlands, Glades, DeSoto, Collier, Charlotte, Sarasota, Hendry, and Okeechobee counties.
Team members are highly trained in large-animal emergency response, including lifting and hauling during large-animal extrications, animal first aid, large-animal behavior, and related rescue techniques. This multi-agency team allows for coordinated regional response to complex incidents involving large animals.
Members of the Agricultural Crimes Unit perform all law enforcement duties as required by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office while supporting specialized agricultural and rural public safety operations.
