PAX, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A late-night utility theft investigation in the community of Pax has led state troopers to a suspect already wanted on multiple warrants, according to West Virginia State Police.
At approximately 8:43 p.m. on January 4, 2026, troopers were dispatched to Long Branch Road in Pax after Fayette County 911 received a report of utility theft. Upon arrival, troopers met with an American Electric Power (AEP) representative who assisted in assessing the damage.
At the scene, troopers discovered items believed to have been used to steal copper wire, including a bamboo pole with a saw blade attached using electrical tape and a wood screw, as well as two aluminum ladders used to climb the power pole. Investigators determined the copper line had been cut down.
Based on prior knowledge of the area, troopers identified a nearby residence belonging to Ricky Joshua Lemacks as being close to the damaged power line. Troopers went to the residence and observed a bamboo pole in the front yard matching the one found at the scene. They also found a large burn pile containing metal sheathing consistent with copper and telecommunications line material commonly associated with utility theft.
The suspect was not at home at the time. His mother told troopers he was out working odd jobs. Troopers advised her that evidence linked the residence to the theft and that criminal charges would be pursued.
Returning to the scene, troopers collected a Mountain Dew can found beneath the damaged power line for possible DNA analysis. AEP provided an itemized estimate of the loss, valuing the stolen copper at approximately $400, with labor and repair costs totaling $2,862.87.
Further checks revealed Lemacks had two active arrest warrants out of Raleigh County related to transferring stolen property and false pretenses. Troopers noted the charges involved telecommunications line tampering and illegally obtaining services without consent.
Investigators also observed a packed-down footpath leading directly from the suspect’s residence to the base of the damaged power pole.
The incident remains under investigation in Fayette County.
