Conspiracy charges filed in theft of irrigation wire

A South Dakota man and a Neligh woman are facing charges in Antelope County related to the theft of wire from center pivot irrigation systems.

The owner of one system estimated the value of the wire stolen from 10 towers on his farm at nearly $9,000, not including labor and equipment costs for repair.

Christopher Barta, 29, of Irene is set to appear Sept. 6, in front of the Honorable Donna Taylor on two Class 2A felony counts, conspiracy to commit theft by unlawful taking and conspiracy to commit criminal mischief, both alleged between April 1 and July 17. Allegations in the complaint, filed by Antelope County Attorney Joe Smith on July 28, include theft of wire in April, attempt to hide stolen wire and transportation of wire in July.

Hearings were held Aug. 3 and Aug. 4 in the Antelope County courtroom to address Barta’s request for court-appointed counsel. Taylor appointed Antelope County public defender Pat Carney on Aug. 3. However, after becoming aware that Carney represents a co-defendant, the judge, on her own motion, appointed Martin Klein of Neligh to represent Barta. Bond is set at $100,000, 10% cash.

According to an affidavit filed by Antelope County deputy Trent Howard, a call was received from citizens reporting a pickup loaded “up to the sides of the pickup bed” with pivot span wire. The pickup allegedly took off at a high rate of speed and was allegedly located later at a Neligh residence.

A warrant was issued for Barta’s arrest July 28. He was later arrested by an Antelope County deputy.

Barta’s co-defendant, Kailee M. Davis, 37, of Neligh, appeared in front of Taylor on Aug. 2 for an arraignment hearing on one count, tampering with physical evidence, a Class 4 felony alleged July 17. She requested a preliminary hearing which is set Aug. 16. Bond is continued in the amount of $5,000, 10%. Davis is represented by Carney.