The solution to the copper theft problem is simple. It takes two to tango. The scrap dealers need to be accountable. The system in place now is minimal and easily corrupted. The buyer only needs to take a picture of the seller, the vehicle’s license plate number and driver’s license (the pictures often don’t match) of the trader and what they brought in to sell. This needs to be done at every transaction.

The scrap dealers know metal. They can tell by purity and form of the mass where it came from even if it has been melted. Melting is not something a professional does. A professional scrap dealer has enough accounts to keep them busy without resorting to crime. I am not saying all pros would never take a stolen item for a few quick bucks. If the policies I suggest were implemented the pros would not risk the trouble.

Also, lawmakers and law enforcement need to be prepared to prosecute with all implications considered. The act could be life threatening to the thief or others. Some of these idiots have tried to cut live high voltage cables — imagine being blown apart by the high voltage. There is also the matter of loss of income from businesses unable to operate. Thieves have stolen heating/air-conditioning system components, water service lines, wiring and plumbing from people’s homes and businesses, automotive exhaust components, broken into and robbed warehouses of new products — and on and on! This is beyond the level of a misdemeanor.

Craig W. VanSant

Everett