Press Release: MCSO Ag Crimes Detectives Arrest 2 and Recover Over $300,000 In Stolen Property
DATE/TIME: 05/22/26 at 12:40 PM
TYPE OF INCIDENT: Monterey County Sheriff’s Agricultural Crimes Detectives Arrest Two and Recover over $300,000 In Stolen Property
LOCATION: 16000 Block Blackie Road, Prunedale, California
MEDIA CONTACT: Andres Rosas, Commander; Phone: 831-261-5492; Email: rosasae@countyofmonterey.gov
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Crimes Unit has been investigating an organized theft ring involving the fraudulent rental and theft of construction equipment throughout Monterey County.
On May 18, 2026, detectives were following up on investigative leads when they learned that a local business was being targeted as the group’s next victim. Investigators determined the suspect was using a false identity and fraudulent credit card in an attempt to rent a mini excavator valued at approximately $37,000.
Detectives coordinated an undercover operation and arranged to meet the suspect to complete the transaction. The suspect met with detectives in the area of Corral de Tierra Road and Highway 68 in Salinas. During the meeting, the suspect identified himself using the false alias and was subsequently taken into custody.
The suspect was later positively identified as 50-year-old Jaime Sanchez Valdez of the Salinas area. Valdez was booked into the Monterey County Jail and charged with violation of Penal Code 532(a) – theft by false pretenses.
On May 21, 2026, detectives continued the investigation and served a search warrant at a property located in the 16000 block of Blackie Road in Prunedale. During the search, detectives recovered a stolen skid steer that had been reported stolen from Quinn Company in Salinas in November of 2025. Detectives also recovered a stolen forklift and a four-stall luxury restroom trailer. The total value of the recovered stolen property is estimated to be approximately $300,000.
During the service of the search warrant, 44-year-old Hazael Corona Andrade was taken into custody. Andrade was booked into the Monterey County Jail on multiple charges, including Penal Code 532(a), theft by false pretenses; Penal Code 496(a), possession of stolen property; Penal Code 487(a), grand theft and Penal Code 182(a)(1), conspiracy to commit a crime.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office Agricultural Crimes Unit remains committed to aggressively investigating and pursuing those who target local agricultural businesses, contractors, farmers, and members of our community through theft and fraud-related crimes. Detectives will continue working diligently with local businesses and allied agencies to identify suspects, recover stolen property, and hold those responsible accountable.
The Monterey County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank California State Parks and Greenfield Police Department for their assistance and collaboration during this investigation.