May 17, 2026 – Imperial County, CA – Imperial County Sheriff's Office officials report that on April 25, 2026, at approximately 
10:00 a.m., Imperial County Sheriff's Office (ICSO) Investigators responded to a business located on McConnell Road regarding the theft of approximately 4S0 sprinkler heads that had been stolen during two separate incidents. The estimated loss totaled approximately $3,100.
Due to the increase in agricultural thefts impacting local farmers and businesses, Investigators initiated an extensive follow-up investigation. As part of proactive enforcement efforts, Investigators utilized a series of specialized equipment to document, track and monitor the areas being affected.
On May10, 2026, at approximately 7:30 p.m., Investigators were alerted to another theft from the same location and immediately responded to that location in an attempt to recover the stolen property and identify those responsible.
Throughout the investigation, investigators were able to identify Juan BALDERAS, a 31-year-old male resident of Holtville, California, who was found to be in possession of the stolen property. BALDERAS was arrested for violation of Penal Code section 487k -Grand Theft of Agricultural Equipment and later booked into the Imperial County Jail. BALDERAS is being held in the Imperial County Jail without bail.
The Imperial County Sheriff's Office remains committed to protecting the agricultural community and investigating crimes that negatively impact local farmers and businesses. Agricultural thefts not only create financial hardship but also affect the operations and livelihood of those who help support Imperial County's economy.
ICSO would like to thank the residents who provided information during the investigation and the Investigators whose proactive enforcement efforts and use of technology helped bring this case to a successful resolution.
The Imperial County Sheriff's Office encourages the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity in rural and agricultural areas. Anyone with additional information related to agricultural thefts is encouraged to contact the Imperial County Sheriff's Office at (442) 265-2000.
Source: Imperial County Sheriff's Office
