Serial Thief Stole Over $225K In Copper From SMC: Police

PORTOLA VALLEY, CA — A serial theft spree targeting telecommunications infrastructures across San Mateo County has been stopped after police arrested a Union City man who allegedly stole around 2,800 feet of copper cable valued at more than $225,000, police announced Monday

Between Feb. 1 and March 18, the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Office deputies said they investigated 11 reported copper cable thefts in their jurisdiction, including incidents in Half Moon Bay, La Honda, Portola Valley, and Woodside.

Police said 53-year-old Michael Galbreath of Union City stole around 2,800 feet of copper during this time.

The final theft in the series, occurring on March 23 on Sand Hill Road in Woodside, provided investigators with the breakthrough they needed. Deputies identified Galbreath’s car and followed it to a scrap metal facility where the suspect sold the stolen copper cable, police said.

“We recognize how disruptive these crimes can be for our community and we are committed to addressing copper theft,” said Sheriff Ken Binder. “This arrest is the result of great police work combined with interagency collaboration and the effective use of technology.”

He was located and stopped by South San Francisco Police on March 24, where Sheriff’s Office detectives took him into custody.

Police found additional copper cable, evidence, illegal drugs, drug paraphernalia and ammunition in his car.

Galbreath was booked into the Maguire Correctional Facility on charges including felony grand theft of copper materials and various health and safety code violations.

The San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office has since filed formal charges.

Following his first court appearance, Galbreath was released from custody on his own recognizance.