Bexar County authorities have arrested two men for allegedly stealing and selling more than $100,000 worth of construction materials, according to Sheriff Javier Salazar.
The arrests followed an observed sale of the stolen materials, leading to charges of engaging in organized criminal activity for 31-year-old Rodrin Alexis Garcia Rivera and 68-year-old Pedro Lozano Moreno.
Investigators recovered over 1,000 circuit breakers and roughly 800 copper wires valued at approximately $100 each. The stolen materials were traced back to residences and a storage facility.
Sheriff Salazar noted a surge in construction thefts in San Antonio, particularly targeting new home developments. “We’ve seen instances in new home construction where thieves would come through and wipe out entire neighborhoods,” he said. Since the beginning of the year, thefts are estimated at over $250,000, with authorities expecting additional arrests.
Salazar advised builders to secure materials by delaying delivery until installation and minimizing visibility, while also noting that cameras and lights may assist investigations even if they do not prevent theft.
