Sacramento man charged for stealing high-value beehive boxes

Leonid Terzi faces grand theft and stolen property charges in Yolo County case.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A 46-year-old Sacramento man named Leonid Terzi has been charged by the Yolo County District Attorney's office for allegedly stealing several beehive boxes valued in the high tens of thousands of dollars. Terzi has been charged with one count of grand theft exceeding $950 and one count of receiving stolen property, with an enhancement for the crime involving planning, sophistication, and professionalism. Investigators say the stolen hives were recovered and returned to the owner.

Why it matters

Beehive theft is a growing problem for commercial beekeepers, with hives valued at thousands of dollars each. This case highlights the high stakes involved and the need for law enforcement to crack down on these types of property crimes that can significantly impact small businesses and agricultural operations.

The details

According to investigators, Terzi was identified as the suspect after he was observed going to the site where he was keeping the stolen beehive boxes and modifying them. The stolen hives were recovered and returned to the owner, who operates a commercial beekeeping operation in northeastern Yolo County.

  • Terzi was arrested in early February 2026.
  • Terzi will be arraigned on February 13, 2026 in Yolo County Superior Court.

The players

Leonid Terzi

A 46-year-old Sacramento resident who has been charged with grand theft and receiving stolen property for allegedly stealing high-value beehive boxes.

Yolo County District Attorney

The prosecutor's office that has filed charges against Terzi in this case.

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What’s next

Terzi will be arraigned on February 13, 2026 in Yolo County Superior Court, where a judge will decide whether to allow him to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for stronger protections and enforcement against property crimes targeting agricultural businesses, which can have significant financial impacts on small operators and the broader food system.