Three Arrested in Conroe for Copper Wire Theft at HighMark Energy

CONROE, TX – On January 3, 2026, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a theft in progress at HighMark Energy, located in the 12000 block of Moorehead Road in Conroe, TX.

The investigation revealed that suspects had been cutting copper wire from oil pumps and power poles, causing a significant reduction in oil production. Surveillance footage showed the suspects staging previously cut wiring on-site with the intent to return later.

Deputies intercepted the suspects in a silver 2016 Jeep Cherokee at the intersection of FM 1314 and Creighton Road after the vehicle fled the scene. All three occupants were detained: 53-year-old John Stephenson, a documented gang member on parole for Assault on a Peace Officer; 40-year-old Jessie Tipton; and 54-year-old Ana Watson, who had an active warrant for Theft of Property with multiple prior convictions.

MCSO Property Crimes detectives led the investigation. All three suspects were charged with Unlawful Use of Criminal Instruments, and additional felony charges are pending as the investigation continues.