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The Tucson Police Department has arrested a suspect in connection with a series of copper wire thefts that have endangered public safety and caused significant damage to city infrastructure.
In September 2025, Operations Division Midtown/Neighborhood Crimes Section (ODM/NCS) Pawn/Scrap Metal Unit launched an extensive, city-wide investigation into a string of copper wire thefts primarily targeting City of Tucson-owned streetlights and utilities. The thefts, which date back to at least mid-August 2025, posed a serious risk to public safety by disabling critical lighting infrastructure across multiple neighborhoods.
Through the investigation and follow-up, ODM/NCS identified 51-year-old Robert Joseph Carrillo as a suspect. As the investigation progressed, Carrillo was linked to five separate metal theft incidents occurring between September 12 and November 6, 2025. Multiple streetlights throughout the city were targeted, with copper wiring removed and sold to scrap yards shortly after each theft. Investigators estimate that Carrillo scrapped more than half a ton of copper wire during the course of the thefts.
On November 6, 2025, ODM/NCS executed a search warrant at Carrillo’s last known location in Midtown Tucson. During the search, Tucson Police recovered additional evidence connected to the wire thefts, along with methamphetamine. During the ongoing investigation, large bins of stolen copper wire, taken by Carrillo from Tucson streetlights, were eventually recovered. Carrillo was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Pima County Adult Detention Center. He is currently being held on a $10,000 bond.
He was charged with the following:
- 12 counts of 3rd Degree Burglary
- 12 counts of Criminal Damage
- 12 counts of Trafficking in Stolen Property
The total estimated damage to city-owned utilities caused by these thefts exceeds $46,000. The Tucson Police Department continues to investigate these crimes, as well as additional reports of metal theft. These thefts not only result in costly repairs but also jeopardize the safety of motorists, pedestrians, and the Tucson community by compromising essential public lighting. Anyone with information related to these incidents or similar thefts is urged to contact 88-CRIME.
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