Man Arrested for Stealing 40 Oregon State Bleachers

The 4-foot length bleachers were valued at approximately $1,000.

Photo courtesy: Oregon State Police

CORVALLIS, Ore. - Oregon State Police arrested one person Thursday morning on theft and parole violation charges following an investigation into the theft of 40 aluminum bleachers from the softball grandstands on the Oregon State University campus.

The arrest came after an Albany-area metal recycling company identified the suspect when contacted by OSP as part of the investigation.

Oregon State University Athletics reported to OSP the theft of over 40 sections of new aluminum bleachers that were awaiting installation at the softball complex.

The 4-foot length bleachers were valued at approximately $1,000.

As part of the investigation, OSP Trooper Chris Graves contacted area metal recycling companies and received a lead from Burcham's Metals in southwest Albany that the bleacher sections were submitted to their company for cash.

Burcham's Metals advised they still have the bleachers and are holding them until they can be returned to Oregon State University Athletics.

Trooper Graves followup investigation led to identifying the suspect as 51-year-old Richard Robertson.

Robertson, who does not have a known permanent address, was located living in a van about two miles from the campus and taken into custody.

Robertson was lodged in Benton County Jail for Theft in the First Degree and Parole Violation.

Source: Oregon State Police

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