Man Arrested for Vandalizing Communications Equipment, Disrupting 911 Emergency Services in Chambers County

On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, Brad Thibodeaux was arrested by deputies from the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Special Investigations Unit (SIU) in connection with vandalizing critical communication infrastructure, causing extensive damage and service disruptions across multiple counties. Thibodeaux’s actions, including tampering with a fiber optic junction box, led to an estimated $100,000 in damages and significant disruptions to emergency services.

The investigation began when deputies responded to a copper theft incident near Highway 73 and County Line Road in Winnie, Texas. Upon further investigation, law enforcement officials discovered that the suspect had not only stolen copper wire but also damaged a Windstream Communications fiber optic junction box, believing the line contained copper wire. This tampering resulted in widespread communication failures, including the temporary loss of 911 emergency services, internet, and phone capabilities across eastern Chambers County and western Jefferson County.

Windstream Communications officials estimated direct damage to the infrastructure at $3,000, with the total impact on services exceeding $100,000. Thibodeaux now faces charges of felony Criminal Mischief, with additional potential charges pending.

Chambers County Sheriff Brian C. Hawthorne expressed concerns over the dangers posed by such actions, stating, “This type of reckless criminal behavior puts lives at risk. Crimes that cripple critical infrastructure are serious crimes.”

Thibodeaux is currently being held at the Chambers County Jail as the investigation continues. Authorities urge anyone with information related to this incident to contact the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office at (409) 267-2500.