Carmichael man arrested in suspected burglary at Rocklin construction site, sheriff says

A Carmichael man was arrested in Placer County on suspicion of burglarizing a construction site, the Sheriff’s Office said Monday.

A deputy patrolling in the area of Cincinnati Avenue in Rocklin at 3:30 a.m. Dec. 22 noticed a light on in a building under construction. The deputy said he saw an SUV near the building that quickly turned around and sped away. The deputy followed and made a traffic stop, the Sheriff’s Office said.

The driver was identified as James Watson, 33, of Carmichael. Watson had an outstanding warrant at the time of the stop, according to the Sheriff’s Office.

Inside the vehicle, the deputy found street lamps and copper pipes valued at $2,800, according to a news release.

“Copper is commonly sold by thieves to recycling centers for cash,” the Sheriff’s Office said.

Watson was arrested on suspicion of burglary and grand theft.