NCJ Number
79259
Date Published
1981
Length
53 pages
Annotation
Based on information supplied by State law enforcement agencies, this report presents an analysis of data on farm implement and supply theft in Iowa during 1979. Data at the agency, county, and State levels are examined.
Abstract
Data analysis reveals that farm-related theft accounted for only 4.9 percent of the total dollar loss from thefts in the State. An average of 1 farm in 61 reported losses to theft in 1979. Counties suffering the highest percentages of dollar loss due to farm theft tended to be the smaller, rural counties primarily located along the southern border and in the western portion of the State. The farm property most frequently stolen included livestock, other farm supplies, and farm machinery. Few geographic patterns emerged in examining farm losses. The major concentration of cattle theft occurred in the south central and northeastern areas of the State. Thefts of hogs and other livestock were slightly more concentrated in the central portion of the State, and theft of farm machinery was distributed fairly evenly throughout the State. Overall, about 17.5 percent of the property stolen was recovered. Farm machinery and other livestock were the most often recovered items, possibly due to the fact that these may be tagged for identification purposes. Collection of data on farm-related theft should continue to help in identifying methods and programs to assist in reducing further losses. Maps and numerous data tables are provided. (Author abstract modified)