A local man whose work is wholly dependent on a stolen utility trailer is so desperate for its return, he's offering a big cash reward.
Valued at about $10,000, the trailer was stolen between Christmas and New Year's Day from a property on Bridge Road in Agassiz, said to Louis Lesosky of Harrison Hot Springs.
"It provides a living for a few people," Lesosky told The Progress. "All my work revolves around serving the community."
The trailer is used to store and transport food-grade screens for drying fruit and mushrooms for his venture, Occupation Apple Tree. They prune trees, pick fruit and dry apples that are shared with the workers and others. They also pick and dry mushrooms.
Custom built with vents, the specialized trailer is also used as a wood-heat dryer that can dehydrate 300 to 500 lbs of fruit at a time.
"We spent more than a year building it," he said, adding that there is no way he can replace the trailer, which is owned by his son, if it's not returned.
When it was stolen, the trailer contained a generator and tools, like a power saw and pruning tools, as well as the screens.
It had been parked at an unoccupied property on the Cheam reserve.They had been working there and cleaning up the property earlier in December.
The reward being offered is $1,500 for the return of the trailer and its contents, no questions asked as long as it's intact.
"I wanted to make it worth it to whoever stole it, to return it," he said.
The loss of the trailer represents a loss of significant investment of time and money, and it would be extremely beneficial for them to get it back, Lesosky added.
Anyone with information can call 604-928-3663 or 604-702-0229.
jfeinberg@theprogress.com
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