Copper Theft Investigation Leads to Arrest at Former Lacache Middle School

December 22, 2025

Terrebonne Parish Sheriff Tim Soignet announced the arrest of a Terrebonne Parish man following an investigation into repeated burglaries, vandalism, and copper theft at the former Lacache Middle School, located at 5266 Highway 56. 

In December, Deputies with the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office began receiving information related to repeated burglaries, vandalism, and copper theft at the former Lacache Middle School, located at 5266 Highway 56.  Deputies with the Bayou Criminal Patrol Detail began conducting extra patrols at the abandoned school when signs of forced entry were discovered.  During those patrols of the buildings and grounds, Deputies observed numerous indicators of thefts from the location to multiple air conditioning units and pipes on the roof that appeared to have had copper wiring and piping removed.

During the initial investigation, Deputies discovered vital information which assisted in identifying a suspect believed to be targeting the school for copper and scrap metal theft.

On December 22, 2025, Deputies assigned to the Criminal Bayou Patrol Detail received additional information that the suspect planned to return to the school during the early morning hours.  As a result, Deputies conducted surveillance at the location, which led to the apprehension of a male suspect found on scene.  Deputies identified the male suspect as Jessie Lambas, 44, of Chauvin, who was brought in for questioning.   At the time of his apprehension, Lambas was found in possession of multiple tools commonly used in the commission of thefts. 

Deputies with the Criminal Bayou Patrol Detail completed a search warrant for a residence and associated structures linked to Jessie Lambas, as part of the ongoing investigation.

During the course of the investigation, Deputies learned Lambas also had an outstanding failure-to-appear warrant.  Lambas was later arrested and transported to the Terrebonne Parish Criminal Justice Complex, on charges of 2 counts of Felony Theft, along with the unrelated arrest warrant.  Lambas remains jailed on a $23,531.77 bond by local judges.

The investigation remains ongoing, and further information will be released as it becomes available.

“These thefts and acts of vandalism not only damage taxpayer-funded facilities but also create safety hazards and unnecessary costs for our community,” said Sheriff Soignet.  “I commend the Criminal Bayou Patrol Detail for their proactive patrols and investigative work that led to this arrest.  We will continue to aggressively pursue all offenders who target crime, at the cost of our community.” 

ARRESTED PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY

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