PLACER COUNTY, Calif. — Three individuals were arrested Sunday on suspicion of stealing copper wire near Roseville, authorities reported.
Carissa Avila, 36; Martin Barron Acosta, 44; and Rigoberto Velasquez, 32, allegedly used power tools to remove copper wire from a new development near Bluebell Lane and Royal Lily Avenue, according to the Placer County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the theft was reported by residents who heard power tools and saw people cutting wire. A white BMW was reportedly parked nearby.
Law enforcement located a vehicle matching the description on Baseline Road, about three miles from the alleged theft scene. During a traffic stop, deputies reportedly discovered copper wires, copper pipes, brass valves, and power tools in the car.
All three suspects were arrested and booked into custody. Jail records indicate they are expected to appear Tuesday afternoon in Placer County Superior Court.
“Thanks to quick reporting from the community and the attentive work of our deputies, these suspects were quickly caught,” the sheriff’s office said in a news release.
Copper wire theft has been a growing issue in the region. In 2023, a surge of thefts in San Joaquin County led to the arrest of four people involved in stealing over 3,700 pounds of AT&T wire as part of a larger network of thieves.
