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Reward Increase: Copper Theft
Copper prices have topped $4 per pound. The theft of copper is endangering not only the reliability and safety of utilities’ distribution systems, but also the safety of people in the area of a theft – including utility workers.
Georgia electric utilities are now offering up to $3,000 for information that leads to the arrest of individuals involved in copper theft from utility property – substations and utility poles and lines are often prime targets. These crimes lead to power outages and safety issues, affecting many businesses throughout the state.
Utilities are working with law enforcement agencies and scrap recyclers to track down those responsible.
Anyone who observes suspicious activity around an electric substation or other utility facility is asked to contact the statewide copper theft hotline: 1.877.723.8717.
This reward is being offered by ECG, Dalton Utilities, 42 EMCs, Georgia EMC, Georgia Power, Georgia Transmission Corp. and MEAG.
For more information about copper theft, contact Daryl Ingram, ECG.
Click here to see the Press Release detailing information about the reward.
Metal Theft
“We are pleased with the law. It has numerous provisions, but a 24-hour waiting period for cash payments on scrap metals should deter some thieves and perhaps create opportunity for apprehension of others,” explains ECG Walter West.
Just minutes before midnight on the last night of the 2009 legislative session, Senate Bill 82 became law pending the Governor's signature. The key provisions of SB 82 are:
- Require a photo ID to sell copper and certain other metals to a metal dealer.
- Require the metal dealer to make a photocopy of the ID.
- Require a 24-hour waiting period before cash payment is made for copper, aluminum forms, and catalytic converters.
- Immediate payment can be made by check.
- Allow prosecutors to include reasonable costs that are incurred in the repair of property or in the attempt to recover property. This will elevate some thefts from misdemeanors to felonies.
Utilities have issued a $500 reward for information about copper theft. A press release, reward flyer and brochure are available here.
ECG provides strategic and technical services to communities with utility operations. Our services are designed to maximize the performance of their utilities and, to a greater extent, create successful communities with economic prosperity and opportunity. We provide services in operations, sales and marketing, business analysis, organizational development and economic development.
