PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Two people have been arrested in connection with a series of copper thefts that caused more than $2 million in damages across Portland, according to city police.
Surge in Copper Thefts Across the City
Over the past six months, Portland police have reported a sharp increase in copper thefts, which have disrupted communication networks, local businesses, and even emergency response systems. The thefts largely involved overhead and underground wires being cut and removed during nighttime hours throughout Northeast and Southeast Portland.
Officials said the stolen copper was being resold after processing, often leaving behind damaged infrastructure that has been costly to repair.
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Investigation Leads to Skidmore Street Property
Following multiple reports and weeks of surveillance, investigators traced the suspected operation to a property on Northeast Skidmore Street, which they believed was being used to process the stolen metal.
On Monday, officers served a search warrant at the location and uncovered extensive evidence of metal processing activity. Police said the site contained large quantities of stripped copper wire and signs of insulation burning, a common method used to extract clean copper for resale.
Two Arrested, Third Cited
Authorities arrested Jeremy Pruitt, 38, and Kimberly Poehler, 39, at the scene. Both face several charges, including:
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First-degree theft
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First-degree criminal mischief
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Criminal conspiracy
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Metal property offense
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Unlawful transportation of metal
A third individual was also cited for metal property offense, criminal conspiracy, and unlawful transportation of metal, though police have not released their name.
Property Eviction and Ongoing Investigation
Police said the occupants of the Skidmore Street property were living there illegally, and the property has since been returned to its rightful owner following eviction proceedings.
Investigators believe the thefts may be linked to other incidents across the Portland area, and further charges are possible as the case develops.
Community Impact and Call for Information
Officials emphasized that copper thefts have far-reaching effects, disrupting essential services such as internet and phone communications, and causing major repair costs for local utilities.
“The damage caused by these thefts affects the entire community,” a Portland Police Bureau spokesperson said. “We encourage anyone with information to come forward to help stop this ongoing problem.”
Anyone with details about related thefts or suspicious activity involving metal recycling is urged to contact the Portland Police Bureau.
