Sheriff’s Office investigating string of plant thefts and vandalism in Aptos area

Residents are on the lookout for thieves targeting camellia plants in the La Selva and Aptos areas.

The Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office said it has received at least seven reports of homeowners who have had their camellias hacked up in the last month.

Investigators believe the thieves are taking the branches to grow new plants. The plants can be sold for up to $80.

They were able to see at least two suspects in a dark-colored GMC or Chevrolet SUV using surveillance video.

Investigators say they believe the suspects seen in the video are connected to at least two of the crimes, and possibly more.

Residents say while they might just be plants, it takes decades for them to grow.