Attorney General Mayes Announces Sentence in String of Copper Wire Thefts Across Tucson

PHOENIX – Attorney General Mayes today announced that Robert Joseph Carrillo was sentenced to five years in the Arizona Department of Corrections, followed by a consecutive five-year term of probation. He was ordered to pay $46,582 in restitution to the City of Tucson. He was sentenced in Pima County Superior Court on March 24, 2026.

Between September 22, 2025, and October 11, 2025, Carrillo damaged underground City of Tucson infrastructure to steal copper wire that powered streetlights across Tucson. He caused $46,582 in damage before selling the stolen wiring. The damage required extensive repair by city electricians. 

"Stealing copper wire damaged more than just city infrastructure, it disabled streetlights and made neighborhoods less safe across Tucson," said Attorney General Kris Mayes. 

Carrillo pleaded guilty to Theft and Trafficking in Stolen Property in the First Degree, both Class 2 felonies.

The Tucson Police Department's Pawn and Scrap Metal Unit investigated the case. Assistant Attorney General Michael Lester prosecuted. A copy of the indictment is available. A copy of the sentencing is available. Mr. Carillo's photo is available.