Suspect Arrested in Franklin County Irrigation Copper Theft Spree

35-year-old Ricardo Perez-Ventura faces multiple charges for damaging large center pivot irrigation systems

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:18pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a damaged copper irrigation pipe fitting, the harsh flash illuminating the gritty, industrial texture of the metal against a dark void, conceptually representing the targeted theft and destruction of critical agricultural infrastructure.A recent wave of targeted copper theft from rural irrigation systems has caused significant damage and disruption for farmers in Franklin County.Pasco Today

Authorities in Franklin County, Washington have arrested 35-year-old Ricardo Perez-Ventura for a series of copper and copper wire thefts from local irrigation systems over the past several months. Perez-Ventura is accused of causing over $90,000 in damages to the large center pivot irrigation systems as he searched for copper parts and wiring, despite the relatively low value of the copper he obtained.

Why it matters

Copper theft from rural irrigation and telecommunications infrastructure has been an ongoing problem in the region, with thieves targeting valuable metals despite the high cost of repairs. This arrest highlights the continued efforts by law enforcement to crack down on these types of property crimes that can have a significant impact on local farmers and businesses.

The details

According to the Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Perez-Ventura is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges for the thefts. Authorities say he damaged numerous irrigation systems by tearing into them in search of copper wire and parts, although the total value of copper he obtained was not substantial. The FCSO is also adding extra patrols in rural areas to try to deter future incidents of this nature.

  • Over the last several months, Franklin County Deputies have been investigating the growing string of copper and copper wire thefts.
  • Perez-Ventura was taken into custody on April 3, 2026.

The players

Ricardo Perez-Ventura

A 35-year-old resident of Pasco, Washington who was arrested for the copper theft spree.

Franklin County Sheriff's Office (FCSO)

The law enforcement agency that investigated the copper thefts and made the arrest of Perez-Ventura.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Perez-Ventura's bail at his upcoming court hearing.

The takeaway

This arrest underscores the ongoing challenge of combating copper and metal theft from rural infrastructure, which can cause significant damage and disruption despite the relatively low value of the stolen goods. Increased security measures and law enforcement presence are needed to deter these types of property crimes in agricultural and remote areas.