UPDATE: A Porterville man, Ralph Holloway, has been formally charged with felony wire theft following a significant incident at a public utility substation. Prosecutors from Tulare County announced the charges on Friday, December 12, 2025, after Holloway allegedly stole copper wire valued at over $20,000 from the Southern California Edison substation.
Authorities report that the theft occurred between October and December 2025, with investigations revealing that Holloway accessed the substation multiple times. He faces grave allegations, including felony grand theft and receiving stolen property valued over $950. The charges carry aggravating circumstances due to the high monetary value involved.
Holloway, aged 36, was arrested earlier on Wednesday, December 10, for outstanding domestic violence warrants. After his return to Tulare County on Thursday, he was arraigned in Superior Court, where he pleaded not guilty. He is currently being held without bail.
Prosecutors emphasize the serious impact of wire theft, stating it disrupts essential services for businesses and the community.
“Wire theft is a dangerous crime that disrupts businesses, agriculture, and community resources,”
said Tulare County District Attorney Tim Ward. The district attorney’s office has committed to pursuing full prosecution in this case.
A preliminary hearing conference is set for January 2, 2026, where the court will further address the charges against Holloway. If convicted on all counts, he could face up to three years in prison.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information to contact the TCDA Bureau of Investigations at (559) 636-5410. This case highlights the ongoing issues surrounding utility theft and its repercussions, reinforcing the need for community vigilance.
Stay tuned for updates as this case develops.
