Man jailed for West Country theft conspiracy

A man has been jailed, and a second is awaiting sentence after admitting conspiracy to steal agricultural and plant machinery across the West Country.

Charlie Hughes, 29, of Ilchester, was handed a 47-month jail term at Taunton Crown Court, sitting at North Somerset Court House, on Friday 23 October.

The sentence included the activation of a previous suspended sentence for handling stolen goods.

The court also granted a five-year criminal behaviour order against Hughes. The order lists prohibitions including that he must not:

• Enter or attempt to enter any farm, agricultural premises or private property in Devon, Dorset, Gwent, Somerset and Wiltshire without prior written permission from the owner or occupier
• Have any vehicles, agricultural or plant machinery on his land without written proof of ownership, permission of the owner or hire purchase agreement.
• Transport or attempt to sell any vehicle, agricultural equipment or plant machinery unless proof of lawful ownership can be provided.

A breach of such an order could lead to a further jail term of up to five years.

The second defendant, Eli Isaacs, 38, of Standerwick, remains on court bail with conditions including an overnight curfew monitored by electric tag, pending sentence at the same court on a date to be fixed.

Officer in the case DC Simon Ledbury said: “Farmers and rural businesses play a vital role in our communities and economy. Theft and other criminal activity can have a devastating effect on those affected. We are pleased that this offender has been brought to justice and hope this outcome provides reassurance to those who have been impacted by rural crime.”