Man Accused of Stealing Over 150 Beehives from Merced County

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A 46-year-old man has been arrested for the theft of 172 beehives from an agricultural property in Gustine, California earlier this month. The stolen hives were later recovered in Yolo County, where the suspect, Leonid Terizi, was observed attempting to conceal the ownership information on the boxes.

Why it matters

Beehive thefts have become an increasing problem for California's agricultural industry, with thousands of hives stolen each year. These thefts can have a significant impact on crop yields and pollination, as well as the livelihoods of beekeepers. The arrest of Terizi highlights law enforcement efforts to crack down on this type of agricultural crime.

The details

On February 6, the theft of 172 beehives was reported from an agricultural property in Gustine, California. Four days later, the Yolo County Sheriff's Office contacted the Merced County Sheriff's Office after locating the stolen hives within Yolo County. Deputies then conducted surveillance and observed the suspect, 46-year-old Leonid Terizi of Sacramento, returning to the property and attempting to alter the ownership information on the beehive boxes. The stolen hives were recovered and will be returned to their owner, while Terizi was arrested and is facing charges of grand theft and possession of stolen property.

• The theft of the 172 beehives was reported on February 6, 2026.
• On February 10, 2026, the Yolo County Sheriff's Office contacted the Merced County Sheriff's Office after locating the stolen hives.

What’s next

The suspect, Leonid Terizi, will face charges of grand theft and possession of stolen property.