Copper Theft Crackdown Intensifies in Southern Nevada

Earlier this month, the city of Las Vegas passed a new ordinance aimed at curbing the sale of stolen wire, and more legislative action is expected.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster):  Southern Nevada is facing a surge in copper thefts, prompting a valley-wide crackdown to protect neighborhoods and businesses.

Earlier this month, the city of Las Vegas passed a new ordinance aimed at curbing the sale of stolen wire, and more legislative action is expected.

Las Vegas police Captain Joshua Martinez said the department is prioritizing copper theft, which has affected small businesses, public street lights, and even major resorts on the Strip.

'Some of these people have experience in HVAC,' Martinez said, noting that the thieves are often professionals rather than drug addicts or homeless individuals.

Anthony Rossi, owner of Broadway Pizzeria, has been without air conditioning for two weeks after thieves stole his unit. 'One of our customers was so nice to give us a floor swamp,' Rossi said, explaining how they are keeping customers cool with fans and a donated floor unit.

 Rossi's business is not the only one targeted. 'Five or six days later they came back and hit the bagel store and Starbucks,' he said.

Martinez highlighted a significant case earlier this year involving a suspect who stole approximately 22,000 pounds of copper, worth $54,000, from the Fountainbleau construction site.

The new Las Vegas ordinance aims to make it harder to sell stolen wire by prohibiting recycling yards from accepting walk-up customers with shopping carts full of copper. Sellers must now arrive in a vehicle and wait 10 days to receive payment.

'I believe it will stop it,' Martinez said. 'It'll provide mechanisms that are barriers.'

The department is also coordinating with other jurisdictions, such as Henderson and North Las Vegas, to adopt a regional approach to enforcement.

Rossi is grateful for the city's action but faces a $13,000 bill for a new air conditioning unit. 'It's a start,' he said, adding that most of the cost will be covered by insurance, though it remains a significant inconvenience.

Despite the challenges, Rossi's loyal customers continue to support his business.

Courtesy: www.news3lv.com

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