Alleged Suspect Arrested For Stealing Copper Wire, Metal Fittings From Elderly Man

BIG BEAR CITY (CBSLA.com) — A 26-year-old man was in custody Friday for allegedly stealing property from an elderly victim.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, the burglary investigation began on Feb. 19, when the victim reported his residence had been broken into.

A preliminary investigation revealed property had been stolen from the home while the victim was recuperating from a medical condition.

Around 4:45 p.m. Wednesday, deputies were sent to check on a report of suspicious circumstances at the victim's home, located in the 1200 block of Bonita Vista Court.

Deputies said a friend went to check on the house, and found a man -- later identified as Jacob Cannata -- loading the victim's personal property into his vehicle.

Cannata fled from the home in his vehicle on Forest Road.

During an aerial search, deputies were able to locate his vehicle on a dirt trail.

Deputies explained Cannata was found in possession of the stolen property, methamphetamine and paraphernalia. He was subsequently taken into custody.

Authorities learned Cannata had active warrants issued against him for allegedly driving without a license, driving under the influence, driving on a suspended license and failure to appear in court.

During the investigation, his vehicle was towed to the sheriff's station as evidence.

On Thursday, the victim identified the stolen property found in Cannata's vehicle, which included copper wire and metal fittings that are commonly sold for cash.

Stolen construction supplies and tools, common household items, electronics and mail were also returned to the victim.

According to deputies, the stolen property was estimated to be worth over $3,200.

Cannata is being held on $50,000 at the Big Bear Jail on felony charges of grant theft, theft from an elderly person, burglary, possession of a controlled substance and outstanding warrants.

He is expected to appear in the San Bernardino County Superior Court again on Monday.