STAR, Idaho (CBS2) – A residential burglary investigation in Star led to the arrest of 46-year-old Russell Buffington after detectives set up a sting operation through an online marketplace.
Star Police say a property crimes detective was investigating the theft of plumbing fixtures and a water heater from a new construction site. A breakthrough in the case came when the stolen water heater was found listed for sale online.
On February 6, 2025, at approximately 3:15 p.m., detectives and patrol deputies arranged a ruse purchase and met Buffington in a business parking lot on W. Chinden Blvd. in Garden City. Upon arrival, officers confirmed the water heater was stolen, though its serial numbers had been removed.
Additionally, authorities found a bathtub in Buffington’s truck, which matched one reported stolen from a separate construction site in Eagle.
Buffington was arrested and booked into Ada County Jail on the following felony charges:
Altering, Defacing, or Obliterating Identification Numbers
Fraudulently Obtaining Goods or Services – Possessed, Concealed, or Disposed of Valued Over $300
Authorities continue to investigate whether Buffington is connected to other construction site thefts in the area.
