A MAN accused of conspiring to steal hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of equipment from farms has appeared in court.

Gintaras Jankauskas was allegedly involved in thefts from at least 13 farms across Essex in a bid to steal GPS devices and computer equipment from agricultural vehicles.

The total value of the equipment added up to £371,872.92, with Jankauskas allegedly working with another person to commit the thefts, Chelmsford Crown Court heard.

The 30-year-old, who spoke only to confirm his name at court on Friday, will now return before a judge on August 12 to enter a plea to the allegations.

The court heard the offences allegedly took place between September 28 and October 27 last year across the county, including in Colchester, Braintree, Maldon and Halstead.

Newbridge Mill Farm, at West Bergholt, and Docuras Farm, in Langham, were the Colchester sites targeted, along with Little Renters Farm, in Little Totham, Cobbs Farm, at Goldhanger, Beckingham Hall, at Tolleshunt Major, and Sheepcoates Farm, in Little Totham.

Lyons Hall, at Braintree, Kirby Hall, in Castle Hedingham, and sites in Bishops Stortford, Basildon, Terling and Horndon-on-the-Hill were also listed as sites Jankauskas allegedly targeted.

Jankauskas, of no fixed address but known to be from Essex, is charged with conspiring to steal from a motor vehicle.

Max Saffman, prosecuting, said the evidence expected to be fundamental in linking Jankauskas to the case comes in the form of ANPR activations, cell site data and CCTV.

Setting the plea trial and preparation hearing for August, Judge Timothy Walker stated the defendant must have more time to decide with his solicitor as to how he will plead.

Judge Walker said: “You will be back before this court on August 12 to enter your plea. If you decide to plead guilty to these matters then I’m sure your solicitors can help you appear earlier than that.

“I have to warn you if you fail to serve a defence statement that can count against you at your trial.”