Mine Burglary and Vehicle Theft Under Investigation

DOWNIEVILLE — On May 26, 2024, at approximately 7:55 a.m., the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office received a call reporting a break-in at the Telegraph Mine in western Sierra County. Two male suspects were observed breaking into buildings and stealing tools. When the mine owner sounded an alarm, the suspects covered their faces with masks and fled the scene.

Sierra County deputies, with support from Yuba County deputies and the California Highway Patrol helicopter (H24), promptly responded to the scene. Upon arrival, deputies encountered a female in a truck nearby. Following an initial conversation, deputies determined that the female was providing false information about her presence at the location. She was detained for further questioning.

Despite an exhaustive ground and aerial search, the two male suspects were not located. Further investigation revealed that the detained female had given a false name. Samantha Kaksonen, 31, was arrested for aiding and abetting, criminal conspiracy, false impersonation, possession of stolen property over $950, being under the influence of drugs, and possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Later that day, a report was received indicating that two individuals matching the suspects’ descriptions were seen at a local residence in Goodyears Bar, a small community west of Downieville. The caller, aware of the burglary, stated that the individuals had asked to use her telephone. Deputies responded, but the suspects had already left the area.

The following morning, the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a break-in at the Sierra County Road Department Yard in Goodyears Bar. Several vehicles were tampered with, and a minivan awaiting donation to Downieville School was stolen. Video surveillance from the yard linked the stolen vehicle to the same individuals responsible for the mine burglary.

On May 28, 2024, the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office located one of the male suspects, Dustin Million, at Bullard’s Bar Reservoir in Yuba County. Million, who had an active burglary arrest warrant out of Nevada County, was arrested. Sierra County Deputies are following up on Million’s alleged involvement in the burglary and the stolen vehicle.

The second individual involved, Joshua Paulin, 46, remains at large and is believed to be in the Dobbins area of Yuba County. The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking information on Paulin’s whereabouts.

The Sierra County Sheriff’s Office extends its gratitude to the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office and the California Highway Patrol for their assistance in this ongoing investigation. Anyone with information regarding the stolen minivan or the whereabouts of Joshua Paulin is encouraged to contact the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office at (530) 289-3700 or the California Highway Patrol. Recovering the vehicle is a priority to ensure it can be donated to Downieville School as intended.