In an unexpected development last month, the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office reports that Kawahara Nursery in unincorporated Gilroy fell victim to a plant heist, stripping the nursery of over 100 Calibrachoa plants. The stolen flora, valued at several thousand dollars, weren't just any plants; they were a popular species often featured in vibrant hanging baskets and known for their profusion of bright flowers.
According to a social media post by the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office, a diligent employee and an unwitting homeowner aided in the recovery of 37 of these purloined plants.
The homeowner didn’t know the colorful Calibrachoas they bought at a local pop-up farmers’ market were stolen. That lucky purchase helped deputies track down the missing plants. The thieves haven’t been caught yet, but authorities are still investigating and working to end the unusual plant theft.
