Stolen Tractor From Bates County Recovered In Vernon County

On Thursday, July 31, 2025 the Bates County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a stolen John Deere Tractor north east of Rich Hill. Deputies continued to work with the victims on the case.

At approximately 1pm Thursday, the Victim reported a lead that the tractor maybe in Vernon County on Albert Road just south of the Vernon County/Bates County line. Deputies from Bates County and Vernon County responded to the area and found the tractor on the side of the road.

Other responding Bates County Deputies coming into the area from the north observed a male walking away from the road where the tractor was located. The Deputy made contact with the subject and subsequently connected the male to the stolen tractor.

Since the tractor was recovered in Vernon County and the subject was taken into custody inside Vernon County the male was taken to the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office for the investigation.

Both Sheriff Anderson and Sheriff Buehler agree that cases like this are the reason that great relationships with each other is a must. “We both serve our citizens and career criminals don’t pay attention to county lines” says Sheriff Anderson. “I agree and we are proud to work together for the common goal of serving our communities” says Sheriff Buelher.