Bellevue-Renton Copper Wire Thief Faces 10 Charges

Overview of the Case

Connor Jon Lacktorin, a 32-year-old man from Bellevue, Washington, is facing 10 charges related to the theft of copper wire in both Bellevue and Renton. The stolen materials have resulted in over $90,000 in damages, with Lacktorin allegedly responsible for stealing and selling 856 pounds of copper wire.

The crimes were reportedly committed using a black Toyota 4Runner, which was linked to the thefts through license plate identification. Law enforcement has charged Lacktorin with theft, trafficking stolen property, and identity theft. His next court appearance is scheduled for August 5.

Timeline of Events

The thefts initially targeted a set of Comcast fiber optic cables in Bellevue. These incidents occurred on October 6, October 15, and November 10, 2024, all at the same intersection of 124th Avenue Southeast and Coal Creek Parkway, near Newport High School in the Factoria area. Although nothing appeared to be taken from the cut Comcast cables, Lumen reported copper wire thefts at the same location. Comcast estimated the repair cost for the three outages at $78,531.

Approximately a month later, another copper wire theft occurred in Renton near Liberty High School in the East Renton Highlands. Hundreds of feet of Lumen and Comcast wire were reportedly cut, leading to repair costs exceeding $12,000.

In each of these thefts, a black Toyota 4Runner was seen at the scene, with a man using bolt cutters to load the car with wires. After running the vehicle's license plate, officers identified Connor Jon Lacktorin as the suspect, as the car had been sold to a "Connor Jon" in the Department of Licensing report of sale.

Additional Allegations

Lacktorin was also accused of a burglary at an auto upholstery store in Bellevue, where an employee's bag and credit card were stolen. The employee claimed he was certain that Lacktorin committed the crime, as his 4Runner was spotted at a gas station where the card was used fraudulently. Additionally, the employee noted that Lacktorin had previously worked at the business.

Bellevue police arrested Lacktorin after he was caught shoplifting from a Home Depot. Officers observed wiring in the trunk of the 4Runner, which was parked in the store’s parking lot. During an interview, Lacktorin stated that he obtained the wire from the ground in the area of the Bellevue thefts but denied cutting it himself. He also admitted to being a fentanyl and methamphetamine addict and acknowledged that everything in the trunk was his.

Evidence and Charges

Police found that Lacktorin had sold 856 pounds of copper wire for $3,076 and had between $3,000 and $5,000 worth of wire in the trunk of the 4Runner. In addition, officers discovered branch cutters, axes, and machetes in the back of the vehicle.

King County prosecutors have now charged Lacktorin with two counts of second-degree theft, first-degree trafficking stolen property, second-degree identity theft, first-degree taking a motor vehicle without permission, first-degree unlawful possession of a firearm, and four counts of malicious mischief.

Criminal History

Lacktorin has a history of criminal activity, including a conviction for second-degree arson in 2013. His upcoming court date is set for August 5, where he will face the charges brought against him.

Conclusion

This case highlights the impact of copper wire theft on local infrastructure and businesses, as well as the broader implications for public safety. The investigation into Lacktorin’s activities has revealed a pattern of criminal behavior that includes theft, identity fraud, and the illegal possession of weapons. As the legal proceedings continue, the community remains vigilant about the risks posed by such actions.