Hundreds of Sprinkler Heads Stolen From Farms in North Marion County

Patchwork quilts of Marion County agriculture are even more impressive when viewed from the sky Photo Courtesy: landsat.com

(SALEM) - More than $5,000 in sprinkler heads have disappeared from farms in the north part of Marion County.

Sheriff's Office spokesman Kevin Rau says that over the last month, deputies have been receiving reports of the theft of sprinkler heads from irrigation pipes on several farms in the north part of Marion County, generally in the Monitor-Mckee Rd NE and St Louis Rd NE areas.

The thefts have ranged from about 60 sprinkler heads to as many as 500 at a time. Investigators estimate the value of the stolen sprinklers at more than $5000, according to Rau, "The person or people stealing these items likely intend to sell them as scrap metal. For the past several years it has become evident that the theft of metals for sale as scrap is closely tied to the purchase, manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine."

Anyone with information about these crimes or the person or people involved with these crimes is asked to contact Deputy Dave Wagner at 503-588-5032.