Full Breakdown
Long Beach Police Arrest Man with Nearly 40 Pounds of Stolen Copper Wiring
5/24/2026, 9:14:00 PM
Incident Overview
On a Wednesday in the 3600 block of Orange Avenue, Long Beach police detained a 30-year-old man identified as Saul Chavez Viveros. Officers observed the suspect tampering with the electrical wiring of a municipal light fixture. A subsequent search uncovered approximately 39 pounds of copper wiring believed to have been removed from city light-pole infrastructure, along with tools commonly used for such thefts. Viveros was booked on charges of grand theft and felony vandalism.
Background: Surge in Copper Theft
The Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) announced that the arrest follows an “active investigation of a recent increase” in copper theft across the region. Municipal lighting systems have become frequent targets, prompting law-enforcement agencies to prioritize the crime due to its impact on public safety and municipal budgets. The LBPD’s burglary detail has been monitoring reports of vandalized light poles in the 3500 and 3600 blocks of Orange Avenue, which led to the discovery of additional evidence at the scene.
Timeline of Investigation and Arrest
- Prior weeks: LBPD receives multiple reports of copper wiring removal from city light poles, noting a pattern of incidents in the Orange Avenue corridor.
- Wednesday (date unspecified): Patrol officers spot Viveros manipulating a light-fixture’s wiring.
- Immediate response: Officers detain Viveros, conduct a search, and recover the copper wiring and theft tools.
- Post-arrest: Viveros is processed at the Long Beach jail and charged with grand theft and felony vandalism.
Official Statements & Police Response
In a news release, LBPD officials emphasized the department’s commitment to addressing the thefts, stating that officers and detectives will continue collaborating with other city departments to identify and apprehend suspects. The release also outlined preventive measures for residents and businesses, recommending adequate lighting around utility areas, trimming vegetation near utility boxes, installing locks or cages on HVAC units, and employing security cameras or gates. The department invited anyone with additional information to contact the LBPD Burglary Detail detectives at 562-570-7351.
Verbatim Quote
"The LBPD takes these incidents seriously and will not tolerate criminal behavior." — Long Beach Police Department
Next Steps and Public Guidance
The LBPD indicated that the investigation remains ongoing, with detectives reviewing surveillance footage and following up on tips received. Authorities continue to urge the public to report suspicious activity related to utility infrastructure. By implementing the recommended security measures, community members can help reduce opportunities for future copper thefts.
