News Release Archive

Investigation into Thefts at Elephant Butte Dam

Media Contact: Mary Perea Carlson, (505) 462-3576

For Release: July 24, 2015

ELEPHANT BUTTE, NM - Recent thefts of equipment from Elephant Butte Dam have prompted investigations by local and federal law enforcement.

Elephant Butte Dam is owned and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation. Any unauthorized removal of equipment or supplies from the dam or Reclamation property is a federal crime.

The thefts occurred around June 18 and July 19. Reclamation staff at Elephant Butte are working with law enforcement officers investigating the thefts.

“We ask that members of the public keep an eye out and their ears open for any information on these recent thefts,” said Albuquerque Assistant Area Manager Ken Rice. “Any theft of Reclamation property has an impact on our operations of the dam for water delivery and power generation.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Reclamation’s See N Say program at 1-888-748-7220 or e-mail at seensay@usbr.gov. Or call the Sierra County Sheriff’s Department at (575) 894-9150. A reward is being offered for information leading to an arrest and prosecution.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.