The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Crime Task Force (Ag Task Force) investigates crimes impacting Fresno County’s agricultural community including thefts involving crops, livestock, farm equipment, irrigation systems, chemicals, and metals. Our mission is to suppress criminal activity targeting agriculture through proactive enforcement, thorough investigations, and ongoing crime prevention education. We work directly with growers, ranchers, and agricultural businesses throughout the California Central Valley to protect one of the most vital industries in our region. Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Fresno County’s economy and workforce with hundreds of commodities grown locally and thousands of jobs tied to farming and food production. Protecting our agricultural community is a top priority for the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
Unit Structure
The Agricultural Crime Task Force was established in September 1999 and continues to serve our agricultural community today.
The unit is comprised of:
- One Sheriff’s Sergeant (Unit Supervisor)
- Four Sheriff’s Detectives
- One California Highway Patrol Investigator
We also work in partnership with a dedicated Deputy District Attorney from the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office who prosecutes our cases from filing through sentencing. This vertical prosecution model ensures continuity, accountability, and strong case outcomes.
Partnerships and Community Involvement
The Agricultural Crime Task Force works closely with:
- The Fresno County Farm Bureau
- The Fresno County Agricultural Commissioner’s Office
- Valley Crime Stoppers
- Agricultural chemical and fertilizer suppliers
- Equipment manufacturers and distributors
- Local agricultural industry partners and community stakeholders
We are active members of the California Rural Crime Prevention Task Force (CRCPTF) where we collaborate with regional law enforcement agencies to share information and coordinate enforcement efforts.
Our team regularly attends agricultural meetings and industry events throughout Fresno County to represent the Sheriff’s Office and provide education on safeguarding property, equipment, and high-value materials. We welcome invitations from growers and agricultural businesses to conduct site visits and offer security recommendations tailored to rural and commercial properties.