Portland authorities announced a series of arrests following a months-long investigation into widespread copper wire thefts across the city, crimes that disrupted traffic signals, communication lines, and critical infrastructure.
The Portland Police Bureau’s East Precinct Neighborhood Response Team began looking into a surge of copper thefts in May 2025, working closely with Lumen Technologies (formerly CenturyLink). The thefts targeted aerial communication lines, underground cabling, and commercial rooftop units, resulting in nearly $2 million in damages.
“These thefts aren’t harmless—they put lives at risk and impact emergency services like 911,” said PPB Chief Bob Day. A stolen stretch of copper from a traffic light in December 2025 contributed to a motorcycle crash that killed a rider, while earlier this year, thieves left a section of I-84 without streetlights.
How the Theft Ring Operated
Investigators discovered that a central broker coordinated the thefts, selling stolen copper to recycling centers while giving the appearance of legitimacy. The stolen metal was funneled from multiple thieves, with profits distributed among participants.
Police used tracking devices on targeted cables, allowing them to trace stolen copper from theft sites to recycling centers and identify those involved. The investigation included a series of arrests starting in August and September 2025, with a critical search warrant executed in October 2025.
Recent Arrests
On March 19, 2026, Portland police arrested several individuals in connection with the theft operation:
- Dedri White, 55 – charged with first-degree theft, criminal conspiracy, money laundering, and multiple theft-related offenses; reportedly processed over $487,000 in stolen metal last year.
- Ronald Hall, 64
- Tristin Morgenroth, 35
- Anna Lokotey, 41
- Autumn Isaac, 35
The latter four face charges for unlawful transportation of metal property.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The Portland Police Bureau emphasized that copper theft is not a victimless crime, affecting public safety, businesses, and essential city infrastructure. Multnomah County District Attorney Nathan Vasquez stated that investigators are reviewing whether criminally negligent homicide charges could apply in fatal incidents linked to copper theft.
The investigation is ongoing. Police have subpoenaed two local recycling businesses to review compliance with regulations and possible involvement in the theft ring.
Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact the Portland Police at [email protected], referencing case No. 26-24698.
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