The Portland Police Bureau's investigation into a large-scale copper theft operation has resulted in additional arrests following a recent burglary at a vacant commercial building that has been repeatedly targeted for copper theft.
This incident is part of the larger, ongoing investigation previously announced by the Portland Police Bureau in March 2026. That investigation, led by the East Precinct Neighborhood Response Team (NRT), identified an organized operation responsible for stealing copper from communication infrastructure, commercial properties, and other locations throughout Portland. Investigators previously identified individuals responsible for stealing, transporting, and fencing stolen copper.
On Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at approximately 9:00 a.m., officers responded to Vibra Specialty Hospital, located at 10300 NE Hancock Street, regarding an ongoing copper wire theft investigation. The hospital closed in January 2026 and has since experienced repeated burglaries and significant copper wire theft, resulting in substantial damage and millions of dollars in estimated repairs.
Officers responded to a report of trespassing at the building. Once on scene, one suspect fled the property, while a second suspect emerged from the building before retreating back inside. Officers contained the building and requested assistance from K9, and day shift patrol personnel.
Three suspects were arrested, while one additional suspect remains outstanding. Officers recovered a large quantity of copper that had been coiled and bagged, apparently prepared for transportation. Investigators also located burglary tools, including large cutters and a winch connected to a vehicle battery. The winch had been configured to pull copper cable through conduit, an unusual method that investigators believe is indicative of larger-scale copper theft operations.
Because of NRT's previous involvement in the copper theft investigation, additional officers were called to assist with the burglary. Two of the three suspects detained were identified as being connected to the previous investigation.
Source: Portland Police Bureau