Copper Thief Arrested With Large Quantity Of Stolen Metals, Tools: LBPD

LONG BEACH, CA — A homeless man has been arrested on suspicion of stealing large quantities of copper and other metals in Long Beach, according to police.

The Long Beach Police Department identified the suspect as 41-year-old Russel Libberton following a tip submitted through LA Crime Stoppers, according to the department.

Libberton was located on May 1 in the 3000 block of Cherry Avenue and taken into custody on a no-bail warrant. Police said he was also arrested on suspicion of possessing burglary tools and more than 100 pounds of stolen metals, including copper and brass believed to be tied to multiple recent thefts.

The arrest was part of a broader effort by the department’s High Crime Focus Team and Burglary Detail, which has been investigating an uptick in copper theft incidents in recent months, according to police.

Authorities said copper theft can cause widespread disruptions, damaging infrastructure and affecting essential services.

“Copper theft can have a significant impact on our city infrastructure and cause disruptions to the services our residents rely on each day,” police Chief Wally Hebeish said in a statement. He added that the High Crime Focus Team plays a key role in addressing emerging crime trends and supporting patrol operations.

Police said the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests are possible as detectives work to identify others who may be connected to the thefts.

The department is also urging residents and businesses to take steps to deter copper theft:

• Ensure adequate lighting around exterior utility areas, rooftops and alleyways.
• Trim landscaping around utility boxes, air conditioning units and electrical panels to reduce would-be thieves opportunities to remain hidden.
• Install locking enclosures around HVAC units and exposed piping.
• Use tamper-resistant screws or hardware on utility access panels.
• Consider security camera systems with visible signage.
• Secure gates and rooftop access points.
• Limit ladder access and remove objects that could assist people attempting to climb up to a roof.
• Ensure vacant properties are properly secured and inspected regularly.

Officials encouraged the public to report suspicious activity, particularly people tampering with utility infrastructure, unusual nighttime activity near commercial properties, or unfamiliar vehicles in alleys.

Anyone with information about copper thefts is urged to contact the Long Beach Police Department.