Copper Theft Probe Led to Shutdown of Scrap Metal Firm

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): A police order to shut down a Reservoir scrap metal business was granted by the Heidelberg Magistrates' Court.

The copper theft probe had found that the scrap metal business has allegedly received stolen goods worth more than $260,000. The investigation found that the business had no valid license to operate as a second hand dealer. The business has been prohibited from operations for a period of two years.

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Also, five more people were arrested as part of the ongoing police investigation into copper theft incidents that led to damages of more than $780,000. A total of 11 arrests have been reported so far in connection with the theft.

The owner of the alleged scrap metal facility has been charged with 10 counts of handling stolen goods, 10 counts of recklessly dealing with the proceeds of crime, knowingly dealing with the proceeds of crime, and two counts of possessing property suspected of being the proceeds of crime. Also, he has been charged under the Second Hand Dealers and Pawnbrokers Act. He has been bailed to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates' Court on 1st December, 2023.

The series of theft incidents have led to significant damages to infrastructure. Also, it has caused disruptions to internet and power services, thus causing agony to the entire community.