SAN ANTONIO – Recently, a man was arrested in San Antonio for allegedly stealing metal wires from an H-E-B warehouse. This incident took place on the Northeast Side, and authorities have provided details about how the theft unfolded.
The suspect, identified as Edward Joseph Hammonds Jr., 35, was tracked down by San Antonio police officers and the Texas Rangers. According to the arrest affidavit, Hammonds arrived at the warehouse on September 5 in a pickup truck.
To gain access to the facility, he checked in with the security staff using a false name, “Jason.” This tactic allowed him to get through the security checks just before 10:50 p.m.
About 25 minutes later, security cameras captured Hammonds leaving the warehouse with H-E-B property loaded in the back of his truck. This included a significant amount of copper and brass wiring, valued at approximately $40,000.
In a twist, Hammonds returned to the warehouse shortly after midnight on September 6. The security staff recognized him from his earlier visit and again allowed him onto the property. However, upon seeing an armed security guard, Hammonds panicked and attempted to flee.
Footage from the security cameras revealed that he sped toward the exit and even broke through the security gate to escape. His truck was reportedly filled with stolen wires at the time.
Hammonds was arrested on Monday and faced charges related to the theft of copper and brass from critical infrastructure, as well as communication wires. He was booked early Tuesday morning with a bond set at $30,000 and was released the same day.
This incident raises awareness about the importance of security measures in warehouses and the ongoing issue of metal theft, which can have serious implications for businesses and infrastructure.
