7 arrested for Louisville copper wire theft ring that targeted critical infrastructure

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Seven people in Louisville were arrested in connection with a series of "high-value copper wire thefts," according to the mayor's office.

In a news release Thursday, Mayor Craig Greenberg credited the arrests to a coordinated investigation by the Mayor's Critical Infrastructure Task Force, which was led by Metro Alcohol Beverage Control, the Louisville Metro Police Department and LMPD Technology Operations.

The suspects arrested are Brian Burgett, 54, Chad Hester, 51, Eric Jenkins, 37, Anthony Napier, 52, Jonathan St. Clair, 32, Curtis Terry, 46 and Julio Torres, 33. All seven face felony-level charges, and more charges could be filed as additional case are reviewed.

The investigation started with a tip from a local scrap yard, which the mayor's office said "reported individuals selling suspicious burnt wire consistent with communications infrastructure used by AT&T and other service providers." That wire was tied back to the city's essential communications network.

Investigators believe the operation could be tied to crimes involving traffic systems along interstate highways and "critical corridors" operated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

According to the news release, investigators believe Burgett, Hester and Napier were specifically involved in a 2023 unsolved case involving wire stolen from a TRIMARC sign.

Detectives uncovered the wire theft operation that targeted both city and state-owned infrastructure. Stolen materials were recovered and tied them to the suspects. The Mayor's Office said the operation may also be connected to unsolved crimes involving communications and transportation systems throughout the region.

Greenberg said in a statement, "Our message to these copper wire thieves is clear: Whether you’re cutting it, stealing it, burning it, or selling it, we will catch you, and we will prosecute you."

Anyone with information about copper theft or infrastructure-related crimes is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 502-582-CLUE (2583). Cash rewards are available for those providing tips which lead to prosecution.

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