PPB Arrests Numerous Suspects in Major Copper Theft Operation

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster):  The Portland Police Bureau (PPB) has made numerous arrests in an ongoing investigation into a widespread copper theft operation that has impacted critical infrastructure and local businesses throughout the city.

Since May 2025, the East Precinct Neighborhood Response Team (NRT) has been investigating a sharp increase in incidents involving communication lines being cut and sold for scrap. These lines, which contain valuable copper wiring, are essential to services including emergency communications such as 911.

Through a collaborative partnership with Lumen Technologies, investigators discovered that suspects were targeting both aerial communication lines and underground cabling. The investigation revealed a sophisticated, multi-person operation responsible for stealing copper from infrastructure and commercial properties, including rooftop air conditioning units.

Initial arrests were made in August and September 2025, followed by the execution of a key search warrant in October 2025. With assistance from Lumen Technologies - including the deployment of tracking technology on targeted cables - investigators conducted surveillance that exposed how stolen copper was funneled into the recycling system for profit.

Detectives identified a central "broker" who facilitated the operation by using business credentials to recycle stolen metal. The broker accepted stolen copper from multiple individuals, processed it through recycling facilities, and distributed payments to those involved while retaining a percentage of the profits.

On Thursday, March 19, 2026, the East Precinct NRT, with support from the North Precinct NRT, the PPB Major Crimes Unit, and the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office, arrested a key suspect.

Dedri White, 55, of Portland, was taken into custody and charged with Theft in the First Degree, Money Laundering, Criminal Conspiracy, and multiple metal theft-related offenses. During the investigation, detectives determined White processed more than $487,000 worth of metal over the past year, highlighting the scale and financial impact of the operation.

Also arrested in connection with this case on charges of Unlawful Transportation of Metal Property were: 

Ronald Hall, 64, of Portland 

Tristin Morgenroth, 35, of Portland 

Anna Lokotey, 41, of Portland 

Autumn Isaac, 35, of Portland 

"These arrests represent a major step forward in disrupting an organized criminal operation," Chief Bob Day said. "Copper theft is not a victimless crime. It impacts emergency communications, local businesses, and critical infrastructure. I'm proud of the collaborative work by our officers, detectives, and partners to hold those responsible accountable."

The investigation remains active. Subpoenas have been issued to two major metal recycling businesses, and their potential involvement or compliance with regulations is under review.

PPB extends its gratitude to all partners involved, including the North Precinct NRT, PPB Major Crimes, the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office, and Lumen Technologies, whose collaboration was instrumental in identifying and dismantling this operation.

 Courtesy: www.portland.gov