Portland Police Bureau
Authorities in Oregon say a “key suspect” was arrested this month, following “numerous” other arrests in connection with a “widespread copper theft operation.”
The Portland Police Bureau said 55-year-old Dedri White was arrested on March 19 and charged with theft in the first degree, money laundering, criminal conspiracy, and other theft-related offenses after allegedly processing more than $487,000 worth of metal over the past year.
Police said the investigation into a “sharp increase” in copper thefts involving cut communication lines began in May 2025. Communications lines contain valuable copper wiring, and the thefts threaten essential communications services including 911…