In a recent theft at a Cherokee County power substation, a Jasper man has been apprehended after allegedly stealing a substantial quantity of copper wiring. According to a report by FOX 5 Atlanta, the incident triggered an alarm that alerted deputies to the potential breach at the Georgia Transmission Corporation's facility on the afternoon of Jan. 16.

Upon investigation, deputies discovered a compromised section of the perimeter fencing and a pickup truck concealed within the treeline, as part of their routine check, they came across 61-year-old Aubrey Lee Miller who was found hiding under some pine straw, with a "large amount of copper wiring" alongside a pair of wire cutters. Miller has been slapped with several charges including criminal trespass, felony theft by taking, damage to public utility equipment, and destruction/vandalism to property, his current residence is the Cherokee County Adult Detention Center, his bond is set at over $6,800, as per FOX 5 Atlanta.

Additional details from ATL News First add that the arrest occurred on a Sunday with the Sheriff's Office confirming that Miller was in possession of large amounts of copper wiring and the tools likely used to sever it from the substation's infrastructure. These materials are commonly targeted for their resale value despite the potential risk to public services and personal safety posed by such thefts.