Scrap yards catching copper thefts

NORWICH, Conn. (WTNH) - Copper thefts are becoming common in Connecticut, and scrap yard dealers are taking the necessary steps to stop them.

About 100 pounds of copper is worth almost $400. That is why scrap yards are seeing more and more people come in with copper, but scrap yard dealers are keeping an eye out for what looks suspicious.

"I get calls from law enforcement on a daily basis from every surrounding town," said Stephen Seder of Shetucket Iron & Metal.
    
On Thursday, Norwich police called Shetucket Iron & Metal trying to track down three people they say boldly walked down the street pushing a shopping cart full of stolen copper. Police arrested 35-year-old Armando Rodriguez, 27-year-old Ricardo Garcia-Alvarez, and 34-year-old Alinson Amable who turns out to have three warrants out of Worcester, MA for his arrest on narcotics charges.

"They came in, attempted to sell it to us. We weighed it up, but by that time the police were already here, and arrested them," said Seder.

Seder's family has owned the scrap metal business for four generations. He said he has seen some changes made in the precautions taken to catch copper thieves.

"We would have had picture ID, weights, signatures, and everything they would be looking for," said Seder.

Police were tipped off about the alleged thefts at a  vacant North Main Street home when a nearby worker reported seeing the men come from around back with the copper filled cart.

"We've thrown people out and said we do not want it. Don't come back," said Seder.

Once police believe they have a suspect, they need to move quickly, so they can match up the copper and the cuts which were made before it is shipped out, or melted down.