LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Seven people have been arrested and charged in connection with a series of copper wire thefts that damaged critical infrastructure throughout Louisville Metro, according to Mayor Craig Greenberg’s office.
The arrests stem from an investigation led by the Critical Infrastructure Task Force, which was formed after a local scrapyard reported individuals attempting to sell burnt copper wire—suspected to be from communication networks like AT&T.
Investigators later confirmed that the wire came from the city’s own communications infrastructure, prompting a deeper probe.
The individuals arrested are:
Brian Burgett
Chad Hester
Eric Jenkins
Anthony Napier
Jonathan St. Clair
Curtis Terry
Julio Torres
According to arrest documents, Burgett, Hester, and Napier worked together to steal copper wire from a TRIMARC traffic sign in 2023. During questioning, Hester reportedly admitted to the theft.
Charges:
Burgett, Hester, and Napier face:
Engaging in Organized Crime
First-Degree Criminal Mischief
Receiving Stolen Property ($10,000 or more)
Criminal Syndication
The four other suspects also face felony charges related to copper theft and infrastructure damage.
“These charges reflect their alleged involvement in organized, repeated thefts at various infrastructure sites,” the Mayor’s Office said in a statement.
Authorities are reviewing additional cases, suspecting that this group may be linked to other similar thefts throughout the city.
