KINGS COUNTY, Calif. (FOX26) – A man suspected of stealing and recycling large amounts of copper wire has been arrested following a law enforcement surveillance operation, the Kings County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) reports.
The investigation into Hugo Estrada Mora began on March 11, when the KCSO Rural Crimes Unit identified suspicious recycling activity involving a significant amount of copper wire. Working alongside the Kings County District Attorney’s Office, detectives placed Mora under mobile surveillance, using strategically placed cameras to track his activities.
On Tuesday, March 26, 2025, deputies conducted a traffic stop in Kettleman City, where they arrested Mora. Authorities say he admitted to stealing the wire during questioning.
KCSO confirmed that Mora was booked on multiple charges related to the copper theft. Further legal proceedings are pending as the investigation continues.
