The Western Agricultural Processors Association and the American Pistachio Growers will host a Tree Nut Theft Training Seminar on Thursday, April 14 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the DoubleTree Hotel in Modesto.
Both Associations alerted the industry of the growing crime of cargo theft via fictitious pickup within the California tree nut industry in December of 2015 through the Tree Nut Theft Emergency Summit and hope that the April training seminar will equip facilities with the tools and practices needed to best prevent theft.
Roger Isom, President/CEO of Western Agricultural Processors Association, estimates that within the past six months that more than 30 loads of almonds, walnuts, pistachios and cashews have been stolen. Dependent on the product type and nut commodity, loads can range anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.
Thieves obtain and manipulate identities of trucker/trucking companies as well as shipping information by hacking into the Department of Transportation Database or load boards. Once thieves arrive on the facility premises they present the fraudulent paper work to obtain the cargo. It most often is not until several days later when they parties involved realize the load never made it to the intended destination and the paperwork is fraudulent.
The training seminar will provide attendees further insight into the details of how the thefts are committed and measures that facilities can adopt to best avoid theft. Additionally, discussion during the day-long seminar will include perspectives from both law enforcement agencies and legal representatives. Upon completion of the training seminar, attendees will receive a course completion certificate.
Registration is required for all attendees. Cost of registration for WAPA & APG members is free, non members $45. Registration forms can be returned to the office via email to info@agprocessors.org, faxed to (559) 251-4471 or mailed to 1785 N. Fine Ave. Fresno, CA 93727. Payment options for registration include mailing in a check or paying online (fees apply) at www.agprocessors.org/events. For any further questions please contact (559) 455-9272.
