PASADENA — Police are investigating a wave of copper thefts across Pasadena that has impacted at least eight businesses in recent weeks. Three suspects have been arrested in connection with one of the incidents, which was captured on surveillance video.
The latest theft occurred Tuesday morning at the Regenerative Surgical Outpatient Center on Vista Road. According to staff, the suspects caused thousands of dollars in damage by stealing copper from a backup generator, resulting in delays to patient care.
Surveillance footage shows three individuals removing copper from behind the building. Officers later arrested the suspects identified as Richard Ladner, Brandon McGovern, and Miranda McBride.
Investigators are now looking into whether the trio is connected to several other copper thefts in the area, including one that targeted the Pasadena Martial Arts School. Thieves stripped copper wiring from the school early Monday morning, leaving the facility without power and forcing classes to be canceled for two days.
School owner Terry Ham said the arrests brought significant relief.
“We would still be out of business right now. There was no way I could afford it, especially during the holidays… We’re just a small family business trying to get by,” he said.
With the help of local electrician BCB Electrical, who volunteered to make urgent repairs, and community members who raised funds, the school was able to recover quickly.
Police are urging business owners to check their security systems and report any suspicious activity as the investigation continues.
