COLUMN: Mudding in fields is a felony

Submitted photo.

Ellis County Sheriff Johnny Brown.

OK, ladies and gentlemen, let’s beat the dead horse for a minute.

I’m sure I’ve preached on this subject enough to irritate some of you but I want the people driving through our farmers’ fields (mudding) to stop.

It hurts our farmers and, in some cases, a landowner who doesn’t want big ruts torn through their property.

With all the rain we’ve had – over 5 inches in some places – I want to remind everyone about driving into the fields (mudding).

I know the rain stopped us from getting all of our corn crop harvested and several other farmers have the same problem.

Also, some of the farmers have already started prepping their fields for the next crop – and it is still a felony if you drive your 4-wheel drive vehicles into those fields. We have had great success slowing this problem down and have even filed charges on some of the perpetrators.

I still ask that friends, neighbors, parents and grandparents watch and educate your young drivers about the importance of respecting these crops and the farmers. Corn prices are so low this year that it basically cost the farmers more to plant the crops than they’re making. Damaging those crops or fields just makes it that much harder on them.

Also, please remember that if a road is blocked with or without barricades for high water DO NOT DRIVE INTO IT even if you think you can make it. DO NOT move the barricades either.

The next driver may not be able to make it through and you can be charged for moving that barricade. TURN AROUND DON’T DROWN.

As always, keep our military and service personnel in your thoughts and prayers as we remember that the rights and freedoms we enjoy begin with their service and safekeeping of our great nation. May you have a Blessed Week.

Johnny Brown has served as Sheriff of Ellis County since Jan. 1, 2009, and is a graduate of the National Sheriff’s Institute. He has been in law enforcement for more than 20 years and holds a Master’s Peace Officer’s Certificate with the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education.