Tombigbee Electric Cooperative is asking for the public’s help in deterring the theft of copper wires from power lines and warning of the potentially deadly consequences the act can pose to thieves.
According to the co-op, thieves stripped copper wires from Tombigbee Electric power lines at least twice in recent weeks, causing thousands of dollars in damages and compromising service reliability for families and businesses.
The member-owned utility serves about 10,000 homes and businesses in Marion and Lamar counties.
Tombigbee Electric noted that they are working with the sheriff’s offices in Marion and Lamar counties to identify the thieves. Anyone with information about the thefts is urged to contact their sheriff’s office.
Local salvage yards and metal recyclers are reminded that buying stolen copper is a crime and buyers can be charged with accessory after the fact or receiving stolen property, both of which are felonies.
-- Article credit to the staff of the Magnolia Tribune.
