Man Identified and Charged After Major Wire Theft Operation in St. Louis City

St. Louis, MO – Authorities have arrested 34-year-old Deandre Smith in connection with a widespread wire theft operation that has impacted infrastructure and public safety across St. Louis City. The arrest followed a joint investigation by the Crime Analysis Unit, Intelligence Division, and officers from Districts 1, 2, and 6, who collectively linked Smith to at least 25 separate theft incidents.

The investigation revealed that Smith was targeting utility wires, causing significant disruption to essential city services, damaging public infrastructure, and putting communities at risk. Detectives located and arrested Smith while he was driving a stolen Ford F-250, and a search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a large quantity of stolen wire and even a street lamp.

The case was presented to the St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office, which issued an extensive array of charges against Smith, including:

• 63 felony counts for crimes such as:
  • Stealing Over $750,
  • Tampering with Utilities – First Degree,
  • Property Damage – First Degree,
  • Tampering – First Degree, and
  • Possession of a Controlled Substance
• Three misdemeanor charges were also filed.

Investigators believe that Smith’s actions resulted in hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages, including the cost of the stolen materials and the repairs needed to restore impacted infrastructure.

Wire theft is a growing issue in urban centers, and officials warn that it poses serious risks—including exposed live wires, power outages, and service disruptions that can compromise public safety and lead to financial strain for both residents and local governments.

While Smith is now in custody, detectives say the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are working to determine if he may be connected to additional cases or had accomplices.

The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department urges residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity involving utility infrastructure. Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the department directly or provide anonymous tips through CrimeStoppers.

Smith’s arrest marks a significant step in addressing a costly and dangerous trend affecting St. Louis and other cities across the country.