Bexar County deputies say they dismantled a theft ring targeting construction sites, recovering an estimated $80,000 in stolen materials.
SAN ANTONIO — What started as a $2,600 roofing theft turned into a major recovery operation totaling nearly $80,000 in stolen construction materials, according to the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say the investigation began February 27 after they responded to a theft call in the 10000 block of Monte Carmel Place. A hidden motion-detection camera captured clear video of suspects loading roofing materials into a white van around 12:15 a.m.
Investigators tracked that van to a home in the 4200 block of San Fernando Street. When deputies arrived, they say the suspect vehicle and stolen materials were visible from the street. A search warrant was obtained and executed later that afternoon.
What they found, authorities say, was a massive stockpile of stolen building supplies hidden under black plastic in the backyard.
In total, deputies recovered 19 pallets of plywood roofing materials, nine interior and exterior doors, six stacks of OSB wood boards, a window, multiple air compressors, nail guns and other professional construction equipment.
While the original theft report was valued at $2,600, investigators now estimate the total recovered property at $80,000. Officials say the materials are linked to construction site thefts in Seguin, Potranco Road, Highway 211 and FM 1518.
According to the sheriff’s office, the suspects admitted to stealing materials two to three times per week, scouting neighborhoods and reselling the sheets for cash.
Joaquin Sanchez Rodriguez, 28, and Nicandro Sanchez Rodriguez, 35, were arrested and charged with Theft of Property, a third-degree felony.
Deputies say the recovery was so large it required two 18-wheelers and two flatbed trucks to haul away the materials.
The investigation remains ongoing.