There is an urgent threat hitting the tree nut industry as we speak. A sophisticated crime ring is hitting tree nut handlers using shipping information obtained by hacking a DOT database, stealing trucking company identification, etc.
Three facilities have been hit in the past two weeks. It is imperative that you know how they are operating and how to protect yourself from these thefts. To that point,WAPA has learned of a thwarted attempt in the South Valley just this afternoon. In response, they have been asked to convene an emergency summit to educate the industry on this latest threat and how they are operating.
Law enforcement from Tulare County and Los Angeles County will be present to provide an overview of the current situation and what has happened. From there, WAPA will provide a forum to have tree nut handlers discuss steps they have taken to protect themselves and obtain feedback on any action items the industry and Association need to take.
The summit will take place on December 3rd at the Wyndham Visalia Hotel from 10 am to 1 pm and lunch will be provided. It is free, but you must register to attend. We encourage all brokers, shippers and handlers to attend and participate in this extremely important meeting.
For details and to register, please visit https://stoptreenuttheft.eventbrite.com or call the WAPA office at (559)455-9272.