Samples of copper wiring stolen from highway light poles

Sedona AZ (February 13, 2014) – On February 10, 2014, YCSO deputies met with representatives of the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) and were informed that unknown suspects had stolen copper wire from more than 20 light poles positioned on the east side of the on-ramp to Arizona Interstate 17 south from State Route 69, Cordes Lakes. The thieves removed a conduit box lid in order to steal the copper wire. Several wires run to each pole which are placed about 200 feet apart.

ADOT last checked the condition of these lights on the evening of February 6, 2014, and they were functioning properly. On February 8, 2014, ADOT employees were called to the area for a storm watch and discovered the theft. Based on information from Sheriff’s patrol units, the theft likely occurred during evening hours on Thursday, February 6, or Friday, February 7, 2014. YCSO deputies collected evidence and contacted detectives.

ADOT provided the following stolen property description and associated value:

• 12,700’ of # 8 Black, stranded copper wire = $ 5,975.35.
•  4,408’ of # 8 Green, stranded copper wire = $ 2,081.11.

Total weight of the #8 stolen wire is about 1200 pounds.

•  4,236’ of # 10 Black, stranded copper wire = $ 1,315.74.

Total weight of the # 10 stolen wire is about 190 pounds.

•  186’ of # 12 Black, stranded copper wire = $ 38.79.
•  Connectors, fittings, and fuses = $ 4,477.36.

Total Loss = $ 13,888.35.

YCSO is asking anyone with information on this theft to contact Yavapai Silent Witness at 1800-932-3232 or Detective Todd Swaim at 928-554-8605:  Refer to case number 14-005117. 

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