CROWLEY – A Carencro man has been arrested following a month long undercover investigation by the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana Livestock Brand Commission.

According to Acadia Parish Sheriff Wayne Melancon the investigation began after his office received a complaint in early March that 1500 gallons of diesel was taken from a farm near Morse.

Melancon stated through the investigation, detectives learned that truck drivers hauling diesel were delivering partial loads to farmers and selling the remainder to a third party for cash.

During an undercover sting operation conducted Wednesday afternoon Detectives arrested Tommy Francis, 47, of Herlil Circle, Carencro and charged him with felony theft. Francis had delivered diesel to the Maurice area and retained 1800 gallons of diesel to sell to a third party. Upon arrival in Acadia Parish to deliver the diesel he was arrested without incident.

Sheriff Melancon stated that through the years there has always been an honor system when accepting diesel deliveries. He is urging farmers to check their deliveries and make sure they are getting what they are paying for.

Francis was placed in the Acadia Parish Jail with bond set at $25,000 by District Judge Kristian Earles.

As the investigation continues Sheriff Melancon stated that more arrests are expected.