Two charged with more than 20 thefts from Shropshire farms
Two men have been charged by police in connection with more than 20 thefts of agricultural equipment from farms.
The charges relate to thefts in the north Shropshire area and come after a four-month investigation by police.
Gates and other farm equipment were taken.
The two men, aged 35 and 51, and both from Whitchurch, will appear in court later this month.
Sergeant Claire Greenaway of West Mercia Police said the first thefts were reported in October and November and neighbourhood policing teams in the Wem and Whitchurch areas had aided the investigation.
She said: "The charges come from a four-month long investigation after the Wem and Whitchurch rural area was plagued by gate and agricultural related equipment thefts.
"The safer neighbourhood team for Wem assisted their colleagues in Whitchurch who led the investigation throughout.
"PC Stuart Leclere and his team identified the need to work with auction houses and other sales outlets connected with the supply of agricultural equipment after the spate of thefts began in October and November last year to establish where the gates and equipment were being sold.
"The SNT never loses sight of the support their community provide and wish to extend their thanks to all that have taken the time and trouble to contact us during this investigation and provide much needed information.
"The two men involved will appear at Shrewsbury Magistrates Court during May."
