Cuyama, Calif. – Sheriff’s deputies arrested two suspects from Taft for theft related charges following a residential burglary in an evacuation order zone impacted by the Foothill Fire.

On Thursday, May 21, 2026, at approximately 8:18 a.m., Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Dispatch received a report of a burglary in progress at a residence located in the 2100-block of Schaeffer Road in Cuyama. The property is located within an evacuation order zone established due to the Foothill Fire.

Deputies responded to the scene along with the California Highway Patrol. Through their investigation, deputies determined that the suspects had unlawfully entered an unattached garage on the property. The suspects also removed copper wiring used to power the property owner’s well.

While searching the area, deputies located and detained and later arrested a female suspect, identified as 34-year-old Bridget Jessica Martinez from Taft, without incident. Deputies later located and arrested a second suspect identified as 39-year-old Juan Carlos Rodriguez, also from Taft.

Both suspects were found to be in possession of burglary tools and narcotics paraphernalia. Martinez and Rodriguez were transported to the Northern Branch Jail and booked on numerous charges related to theft. Charges and bail amount are pending.

The Sheriff’s Office maintains enhanced law enforcement presence in evacuation areas during emergencies to safeguard evacuated neighborhoods and deter criminal activity. Deputies remain vigilant for suspicious behavior and will actively investigate any unauthorized activity within restricted areas. The Sheriff’s Office recognizes that residents displaced by wildfires are already facing significant stress and uncertainty, and criminal acts targeting evacuated properties will not be tolerated.