Duncan says theft of wire on the rise

Jasper County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Scotty Duncan said Monday that the department has recently seen an increase in the number of wire theft cases. It’s an old problem that’s been going on for years with thieves stealing copper wire and then selling it to metal recycling shops for drug money. Duncan said “We are working with area recycling yards to identify the thieves and charge them accordingly. It is truly a team effort when it comes to preventing these thefts and holding those responsible accountable.” The most recent cases were occurring in the Buna area. In mid-February Duncan said thieves were breaking into homes and businesses and were stealing copper wire along with catalytic converters and radiators from vehicles. Duncan says “If you see something, say something”. Duncan encouraged people to take an aggressive approach to keeping an eye on your community and to immediately report any suspicious activity that you observe.