by | Published
Authorities have arrested one suspect in connection with a widespread contractor theft ring responsible for more than 2,000 thefts and approximately $330,000 in losses across Guadalupe County.
Olbin Donaldo Paz-Ortiz was taken into custody following an investigation by the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) Criminal Investigations Bureau. Investigators determined that Paz Ortiz and another suspect, who has since fled the United States, trespassed on residential properties and forcibly removed breakers from electrical panels, causing significant damage and financial loss to homeowners and builders.
The GCSO, assisted by the Hays County Sheriff’s Office and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), conducted covert operations that led to the execution of multiple search warrants and Paz Ortiz’s arrest.
Paz Ortiz has been charged with three counts of Theft of Property ($30,000–$150,000) and one count of Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity. He has also been placed on an ICE hold due to his illegal status in the United States. Authorities confirmed that both suspects were Honduran nationals unlawfully present in the country.
The investigation remains ongoing as law enforcement continues efforts to apprehend the second suspect.
