PPB Makes Numerous Arrests Connected to Copper Theft Investigation

Over the past six months, there has been a sharp rise in copper thefts in Portland. This has resulted in more than $2 million in losses and damages across the city. These thefts have significantly disrupted communication services - particularly landline connections - and impacted local businesses and emergency response systems.

View full size image of stolen copper

Following reports of overhead and underground communication lines being cut and removed at night, in the areas of Northeast 162^nd Avenue and Northeast San Rafael Street, Northeast 102^nd Avenue and Northeast Fremont Street, and Southeast 111^th Avenue and Southeast Foster Road, the Portland Police Bureau's East Precinct Neighborhood Response Team (NRT) launched an investigation in coordination with patrol officers and community members. Investigative leads identified a location in the 8600 block of Northeast Skidmore Street believed to be used for processing stolen copper.

View full size image of Stolen copper being burned

On Monday, November 3, 2025, PPB, in collaboration with the Special Emergency Reaction Team (SERT), Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT), K9, North Precinct NRT, and the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office, served a search warrant at the location. A search of the property revealed extensive evidence of copper theft and metal processing, including the burning and stripping of insulation from copper wiring.

The following two people were arrested and transported to the Multnomah County Detention Center:

Jeremy J. Pruitt, 38, Theft in the First Degree, Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, Criminal Conspiracy (Theft in the First Degree), Metal Property Offense, and Unlawful Transportation of Metal

Kimberly J. Poehler, 39, Theft in the First Degree, Criminal Mischief in the First Degree, Criminal Conspiracy (Theft in the First Degree), Metal Property Offense, and Unlawful Transportation of Metal

View full size image of suspect in custody

The following individual was cited:

Justin Gilpatrick, 40, Metal Property Offense, Unlawful Transportation of Metal, and Criminal Conspiracy (Metal Property Offense)

The property where the warrant was served was subsequently evicted by MCSO Civil Deputies and returned to the estate of the rightful owner, as the occupants were residing there illegally.

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges are pending. Anyone with information is asked to contact crimetips@police.portlandoregon.gov and reference case number 25-244858.

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