Butte County deputies are actively searching for 34-year-old James Lopez, a resident of the Palermo area, who is wanted on two felony arrest warrants. The investigation began on September 21, 2026, when deputies responded to a home in the Palermo area following reports of a concealed camera discovered in a bathroom. Authorities allege that Lopez installed the device. During the subsequent inquiry, detectives identified Lopez as the director of transportation for the Paradise Unified School District. Investigators also uncovered evidence providing probable cause to believe that Lopez transported a firearm in a vehicle he regularly used for his commute to work. Consequently, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office obtained a felony arrest warrant for Lopez regarding the alleged firearm violation and notified the Paradise Police Department. Following this development, Paradise police discovered additional evidence suggesting that Lopez had taken property belonging to the school district and had used a district credit card without authorization. This led to a second felony arrest warrant being issued for Lopez. Both the Butte County Sheriff’s Office and the Paradise Police Department are continuing their efforts to locate and apprehend Lopez. The investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding Lopez’s whereabouts to contact the Butte County Sheriff’s Office at 530-538-7322 to provide tips or assistance in the manhunt.