Four Suspects Arrested After Copper Theft From Utility Poles in Macon

MACON, Ga. – Four men were taken into custody Wednesday after Bibb County deputies responded to a report of suspects stealing copper from utility poles near Walker Road and Rice Mill Road.

Deputies with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office and investigators from the CID Property Division responded to the intersection on August 26, 2026, after receiving the theft report.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the suspects fled when deputies arrived. Three men were taken into custody at the scene, while a fourth escaped into a wooded area.

The fourth suspect, identified as 61-year-old John Ravan, was later located on Pio Nono Avenue after emerging from the woods. Ravan was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. Information about his condition and charges was not immediately provided.

The three other suspects were transported to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center.

Ronnie Bell Jr., 51, was charged with Felony Theft by Taking, Criminal Damage to Property in the Second Degree and Interfering with Property of a Public Utility Company. His bond was set at $10,560.

Randy Charles Reynolds, 63, faces the same three charges and was also given a $10,560 bond.

Michael Alton Waters, 29, was charged with Felony Theft by Taking, Criminal Damage to Property in the Second Degree and Interfering with Property of a Public Utility Company. Waters also faces a Parole Violation and is being held without bond because of his parole status.