Copper wire thefts continue to rise across Long Beach, prompting increased enforcement efforts by the Long Beach Police Department as investigators work to combat a growing problem impacting neighborhoods and public infrastructure.
Police announced the arrest of a suspect connected to an ongoing copper theft investigation after officers discovered a man allegedly tampering with city electrical wiring early Tuesday morning in North Long Beach.
According to LBPD, patrol officers, the department’s High Crime Focus Team, and Burglary Detail have spent the past several months investigating a recent increase in copper theft incidents throughout the region. Authorities say the thefts have caused damage to city lighting infrastructure and created safety concerns for residents.
The latest arrest occurred on May 20 at approximately 3:26 a.m. in the 3600 block of Orange Avenue. A North Division patrol sergeant reportedly observed a man appearing to tamper with electrical wiring connected to a city light fixture.
After detaining the suspect, officers allegedly discovered approximately 39 pounds of wiring believed to have been stolen from city light pole infrastructure, along with tools commonly used to remove wiring.
During the investigation, officers also located additional evidence of vandalism involving city lighting infrastructure in the 3500 and 3600 blocks of Orange Avenue.
The suspect was identified as Saul Chavez Viveros, a 30-year-old Long Beach resident. He was booked on charges of grand theft and felony vandalism. Bail remains pending magistrate review.
Police emphasized that copper theft remains a serious issue affecting communities throughout Long Beach and surrounding areas. Stolen wiring can leave streets darkened, increase repair costs, and create hazardous conditions for drivers and pedestrians.
LBPD said officers and detectives will continue working with city departments to identify and arrest additional suspects connected to copper theft activity.
Authorities are encouraging residents to report suspicious activity as part of the department’s “See Something, Say Something” campaign. Residents can call 9-1-1 during emergencies or contact Police Dispatch to report suspected copper theft activity.
You must be logged in to post a comment.