Full Notification

UPDATE:  On February 25, 2025, at 11:52 p.m., a City of Morgan Hill employee observed two male suspects tampering with a light pole power box on Butterfield Boulevard at Fisher Avenue.  Both suspects immediately fled the area after being spotted, however, Morgan Hill Police officers were already enroute to the area.  Upon arrival, officers located Miguel Corona Valdez (32 y/o) walking on Butterfield Boulevard and took him into custody without incident.  Minutes later, officers located Candelario Contreras Rios (38 y/o) in the area of Monterey Road and Vineyard Boulevard and successfully apprehended him without incident.  The ensuing investigation revealed that copper wire had been removed from their power boxes which caused all the affected light poles to be without power.  The damage caused from the theft/vandalism is estimated to be more than $20,000.00.     
 
Both Miguel Corona Valdez and Candelario Contreras Rios were transported to the Santa Clara County Main Jail on charges of felony vandalism, grand theft and conspiracy.

On February 23, 2025, the Morgan Hill Police Department discovered thieves had stolen copper wire from numerous light poles on Butterfield Boulevard, between E. Dunne Avenue and Monterey Road. The thieves accessed the wires by removing the concrete cover or digging underneath the concrete base. The wire thefts caused numerous streetlights to lose their power, however, there were no reported disruptions to traffic signals in the area.
 
The Morgan Hill Police Department is asking for the community’s assistance in reporting suspicious activity around light poles and power supply units. It is important not to automatically assume legitimate work is being conducted, especially late at night or in the early morning hours. Often, the thieves will utilize professional-looking vehicles, equipment, uniforms, and safety vests to mask their crimes.   
 
The City of Morgan Hill contracts with Cal-West Lighting & Signal Maintenance; if you do not see either the Cal-West or City of Morgan Hill logo, contact the Morgan Hill Police Department immediately and do not attempt to contact the suspects.

 Anyone who may have information regarding this incident or similar cases is encouraged to contact Detective Tony Reis at (669) 253-4988 or email Tony.Reis@morganhill.ca.gov.
 
Information can also be given anonymously at  https://www.morganhill.ca.gov/FormCenter/Police-14/Morgan-Hill-Crime-Stoppers-88 or 1-800-222-TIPS.