NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — A Tennessee investigation into stolen farm equipment has led to the recovery of about $60,000 worth of property and an eight-year prison sentence.
Darrell L. Hillis of Van Buren County pleaded guilty to theft of property valued between $60,000 and $250,000, a Class B felony, according to the state’s Agricultural Crime Unit.
Authorities say the equipment, a John Deere 7400 tractor and a Tubeline bale wrapper, was stolen from a barn at Woolfolk Farms in Jackson in February 2025.
The tractor was later traced to an auction company in Georgia, more than 700 miles away, after the owner spotted it listed on social media.
Investigators say the bale wrapper was recovered in April during a search of Hillis’ property, where it had been hidden in a wooded area. A drone from the Warren County Sheriff’s Office helped locate the equipment.
Officials say both pieces of equipment have since been returned to the owner and that cooperation between agencies played a key role in resolving the case.
“Collaboration among our agents, the bureau’s agents, and local law enforcement officers was key to holding the defendant accountable and ensuring this case was successfully resolved.” ACU Special Agent in Charge Greg Whitehead said.
The Agricultural Crime Unit has investigated more than 1,100 cases since July 2025, including 137 in March 2026.
To contact ACU call 844-AG-CRIME (844-242-7463) or email [email protected].
