Two men charged after $50,000 worth of stolen property recovered
BINGHAM COUNTY, Idaho (KIFI) — Two men face grand theft charges following a multi-agency investigation that recovered more than $50,000 in stolen property across Idaho and Utah.
James T. Cooper and Tony P. Goans were arrested in connection with a series of thefts targeting businesses in both states.
The investigation began after a $3,300 Portacool evaporative fan was reported stolen from Ace Hardware in Aberdeen on June 1, 2026. Detectives used surveillance footage and investigative leads to identify the suspects. Eventually, the investigation led to a search warrant and the discovery of a larger operation involving stolen lawn equipment, recreational vehicles, and utility trailers.
Cooper was arrested June 5, 2026, at the Short Stop convenience store in Blackfoot. He was charged with grand theft in connection with the investigation.
On June 15, 2026, the Southeastern Idaho S.T.A.R. Team executed a search warrant at a residence in Power County and arrested Goans on grand theft charges.
Following the arrests, investigators searched multiple locations, including a storage unit in Pocatello and property in Bingham County. They recovered commercial lawn equipment, outdoor power equipment, recreational vehicles and utility trailers. The search also resulted in the recovery of kayaks, outdoor furniture and fire pits.
The stolen merchandise originated from businesses throughout southeastern Idaho and northern Utah. According to investigators, items were taken from Tractor Supply Company in Pocatello, CAL Ranch and Blackfoot Motorsports in Blackfoot, and Ace Hardware stores in Aberdeen, Shelley and Brigham City.
The Bingham Joint Investigations Division coordinated the effort with the Power County Sheriff's Office and the Southeastern Idaho S.T.A.R. Team. Additional assistance was provided by Pocatello Police, Shelley Police, and Blackfoot Police.
Detectives are continuing to work with partner agencies to identify additional victims and confirm the ownership of the recovered property. Investigators are also evaluating the possibility of additional criminal charges in the case.
Anyone with information related to the investigation is asked to contact the Bingham County Sheriff's Office Dispatch at (208) 785-1234.
