Refugio County, TX — Two people were arrested after deputies responded to a reported theft in progress near Highway 77 and Roach Division Road, according to information released by Refugio County Sheriff Matthew Tuttle.
Corporal James Repka responded to the ranch and found a man and woman in a black Ford F-150 with a trailer attached. Authorities said the ranch foreman had blocked the gate with three vehicles, preventing the pair from leaving before deputies arrived.
Witnesses reported that the two had been searching the ranch for the trailer. Deputies contacted its owner, who confirmed that no one had permission to remove it.
The trailer contained a welding machine, toolbox, air compressor and other equipment. Authorities estimated the combined value of the trailer and equipment at approximately $8,600.
Both individuals were arrested and charged with Theft of Property. During searches following the arrests, deputies reported finding suspected methamphetamine on the man and inside the woman’s purse. Both were additionally charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 1.
Authorities said that after arriving at the Refugio County Jail, deputies discovered the man had allegedly concealed additional suspected methamphetamine on his person and brought it into the correctional facility. He received an additional charge of Prohibited Substance or Item in a Correctional Facility.
The sheriff credited deputies, witnesses and the ranch foreman for their roles in the response.
The names of the two people arrested were not provided in the information released.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.