A 41-year-old homeless man is facing possible criminal charges Wednesday after being arrested for allegedly stealing copper wire in Long Beach.
The arrest of Russel Libberton on May 1 in the 3000 block of Cherry Avenue followed a months-long investigation by the Long Beach Police Department’s High Crime Focus Team in coordination with the department’s Burglary Detail, officials said.
The investigation was spurred by an LA Crime Stoppers tip regarding a recent theft.
The High Crime Focus Team, which had been actively investigating a rash of copper thefts, arrested Libberton on Friday in the 3000 block of Cherry Avenue, the LBPD reported.
Libberton was taken into custody for a no-bail warrant as well as suspicion of possession of burglary tools and possession of over 100 pounds of stolen precious metals, including copper and brass, “which are believed to be connected to ongoing theft investigations in the area,” according to a police statement.
“Copper theft can have a significant impact on our city infrastructure and cause disruptions to the services our residents rely on each day,” Long Beach Police Chief Wally Hebeish said in a news release. “Our High Crime Focus Team serves as an adaptable and necessary asset for addressing emerging crime trends. They play a critical role in supporting patrol officers who are routinely tasked with handling calls for service and responding to emergencies. This recent arrest exemplifies the unwavering commitment of our HCFT officers and the detectives from our Burglary Detail in reducing copper theft in our community and holding suspects accountable.”
To prevent copper theft, police advise:
— ensuring there is adequate lighting around exterior utility areas, rooftops and alleyways;
— trimming landscaping around utility boxes, AC units and electrical panels to remove concealment;
— encouraging neighbors to report suspicious after-hours activity;
— installing locking enclosures or cages around HVAC units and exposed piping;
— Using tamper-resistant screws or hardware on utility access panels;
— deploying security camera systems with visible signage;
— securing gates and rooftop access points;
— limiting ladder access and removing objects near buildings that could assist in climbing; and
— ensuring vacant properties are properly secured and inspected regularly.
Police also said residents should report suspicious vehicles in alleys, individuals tampering with utility infrastructure and nighttime activity around commercial buildings and city infrastructure.
“We encourage community members to always follow the `See Something, Say Something’ philosophy,” police said.
In emergencies, people are encouraged to call 911 and to make reports of suspicious activity or copper theft to LBPD Dispatch at 562-435-6711. Information can be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477) or LACrimestoppers.org.