COFFEE COUNTY, TN — Just 24 miles east of the Rutherford County line, the Coffee County Sheriff’s Department is asking residents to stay alert after two side-by-side UTVs and a dual-axle gooseneck trailer were reported stolen. The thefts occurred in the Hillsboro community, an area that has seen several similar incidents over the past few months.

Investigators say anyone currently in the market for a UTV or flatbed trailer should be extremely cautious. Buyers are urged to make sure the equipment they’re considering isn’t “hotter than the heat that comes with selling stolen goods.” The Sheriff’s Department warns that thieves often attempt to resell stolen property through online classifieds, social media marketplaces, and in-person transactions.

Before buying, officials strongly encourage potential buyers to check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) offers a free online VIN search tool at NICB.org/VINcheck, enabling users to determine whether a vehicle has been reported stolen. This tool is valuable not only for UTVs but for a wide range of vehicles and equipment.

The Coffee County Sheriff’s Department is also increasing patrols in the Hillsboro area, while urging residents to monitor their outdoor equipment and report anything suspicious. “If you see something, say something,” the department emphasized. Anyone with information—no matter how small—is encouraged to call the CCSO tip line at 931-570-4406 and leave a message if no one answers.

Since Rutherford County neighbors Coffee County, local residents should also be on the lookout. If the stolen UTVs or trailer appear in the Rutherford County area, or if they’re spotted in an online ad originating from Rutherford County, residents should contact the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office at 615-898-7777.

Stolen Vehicles & Trailer — Coffee County, TN:

• Gooseneck flatbed trailer — stolen 11/18/2025

• 2024 Teryx 1000 UTV — stolen 11/7/2025

• 2014 Polaris UTV (Blue & Black) — stolen 8/17/2025

Authorities stress that community awareness is crucial to recovering stolen items and preventing further thefts.