Bakersfield, CA – A Bakersfield man is behind bars after deputies say he was found with a large amount of allegedly stolen copper wire amid a rise in thefts targeting agricultural equipment across Kern County.
According to the Kern County Sheriff’s Office, the arrest happened Thursday when detectives with the Rural Crimes Investigation Unit located 50-year-old Agustin Ramirez Ayala in the 3800 block of Rosedale Highway. Investigators say Ramirez Ayala was allegedly in possession of approximately 175 pounds of stolen copper wire at the time.
Authorities allege the investigation began following a noticeable increase in copper wire thefts impacting farms and agricultural operations in the region. Detectives identified Ramirez Ayala as a suspect after connecting him to multiple incidents involving allegedly stolen materials.
Further investigation revealed Ramirez Ayala had allegedly been operating as an unlicensed recycler, and officials say he had reportedly recycled more than 3,200 pounds of copper wire over the past two months. Deputies allege the activity contributed to ongoing theft trends affecting critical farming infrastructure.
Ramirez Ayala was arrested and booked into the Kern County Jail on charges including allegedly operating as a recycler without a license, along with other related offenses. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing and additional charges could be considered.
The sheriff’s office is urging anyone with information related to copper wire thefts or this case to come forward. Tips can be directed to the Kern County Sheriff’s Office or submitted anonymously through Secret Witness.
Authorities continue to warn residents and businesses, particularly in rural areas, to remain vigilant as copper thefts persist across the county.
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