HEMET, CA – On Friday, October 2, 2026, Hemet Police Department detectives conducted inspections at the majority of recycling centers throughout the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley in response to recent thefts of backflow devices, copper, wire, and other metal materials.
During the operation, detectives inspected 6 recycling centers, reviewed required records and business practices, and looked for property potentially connected to recent thefts.
The inspections resulted in several civil and potential criminal violations being identified. Detectives also located several items suspected of being stolen, which were held for further investigation. Additional follow-up will be conducted to determine if the recovered property is connected to reported thefts.
The operation follows a recent Hemet Police Department investigation in which detectives used Flock Safety cameras and traditional investigative techniques to identify a vehicle connected to the theft of a backflow device. Detectives located the vehicle and continued their investigation, which ultimately led them to a recycling center where the stolen backflow device was recovered. That investigation resulted in the arrest of two individuals on several felony charges. In that case, the individuals received just $64.35 for the recycled material, while the business owner faced more than $5,000 in repairs, loss of water service, business closure, and significant inconvenience.
“What is frustrating about these thefts is the amount of damage and disruption they cause to our local businesses for such a small payoff. We are going to continue being proactive, working with our local recycling centers and using the resources available to us to identify the people responsible for these thefts and hold them accountable,” said Lieutenant Derek Maddox.
The Hemet Police Department will continue conducting proactive enforcement and investigative operations aimed at those stealing property and illegally selling stolen materials.
Anyone with information regarding metal theft or the illegal sale of stolen property is encouraged to contact Hemet Police Department Investigator Katie Rabago at 951-765-2400.
