562.570.5273
LBPDPIO@longbeach.gov
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Over the past few months, Long Beach Police Department patrol officers, the High Crime Focus Team, and Burglary Detail, have been actively investigating a recent increase in regional in copper theft incidents. On May 20, 2026, officers arrested a suspect related to this ongoing effort.
On May 20, 2026 at approximately 3:26 a.m., a North Division sergeant working patrol in the 3600 block of Orange Avenue, observe a male adult suspect who appeared to be tampering with the electrical wiring of a city lighting fixture. After detaining the suspect, further investigation revealed the suspect was in possession of approximately 39 pounds of wiring believed to have been stolen from city light pole infrastructure, along with tools used to steal wiring.
During the course of the investigation, officers located additional evidence of vandalism to city lighting infrastructure in both the 3500 and 3600 blocks of Orange Avenue.
The suspect was safely arrested and identified as Saul Chavez Viveros, a 30-year-old resident of Long Beach, who was booked for grand theft and felony vandalism. Bail is pending magistrate review.
The LBPD takes these incidents seriously and will not tolerate criminal behavior. Officers and detectives will continue collaborating with other city departments and working tirelessly to identify and arrest any suspects responsible.
To better prevent copper theft, the Long Beach Police Department also recommends the following safety tips:
- Ensure adequate lighting around exterior utility areas, rooftops, and alleyways.
- Trim landscaping around utility boxes, AC units, and electrical panels to remove concealment.
- Encourage neighbors to report suspicious after-hours activity.
- Install locking enclosures or cages 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 climb-assist objects near buildings.
- Ensure vacant properties are properly secured and inspected regularly.
Encourage immediate reporting of:
- Suspicious vehicles in alleys
- Individuals tampering with utility infrastructure
- Nighttime activity around commercial buildings and city infrastructure
We encourage community members to always follow the “See Something, Say Something” philosophy. Call 9-1-1 for emergencies. To report suspicious activity or file a report regarding copper theft, contact Police Dispatch at 562.435.6711.
Burglary detectives believe Viveros may be connected to ongoing theft investigations in the area. Detectives urge anyone with additional information, or who may have captured footage of these copper thefts to contact the Burglary Detail at 562.570.7351.
Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may submit a tip through "LA Crime Stoppers" by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the "P3 Tips" app to your smartphone (available at the Apple App store and Google Play) or visiting www.LACrimestoppers.org.