Charges pending in solar panel vandalism

Felony charges are being screened against a New Mexico man accused of vandalizing solar panels and other infrastructure in the San Juan County backcountry.
Stephen McRae, age 66, was arrested by law enforcement officials on October 19 on Cedar Mesa. He was released on bail.
The investigation is ongoing and additional incidents of vandalism could be added to the charges. Reported acts of vandalism include damage to wells, solar panels, water sources, and security cameras.
Anyone with information or who is aware of additional vandalism should call San Juan County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeremy Homedew at 435-587-2237.
San Juan County Attorney Mitch Maughan said he is awaiting a report from law enforcement before any charges are filed.
Sheriff’s Deputy Colby Turk reports law enforcement officials in surrounding counties have contacted the Sheriff’s Office to seek information about the incidents. There may be a connection to vandalism in their counties.
In 2016, McRae, a onetime resident of Escalante, was convicted in federal court for vandalizing electric system infrastructure in Garfield County.
As part of the plea deal, he admitted to vandalizing equipment in San Juan County’s Lisbon Valley in 2015. He was not charged in that incident. He recently cleared federal probation.