In North Texas, a string of brazen copper thefts has prompted a strong response from the Garland Police Department. Thieves, emboldened by the seeming obfuscation of broad daylight or the cover of night, have been striking critical infrastructure with the stealth of seasoned pros. Garland PD's Lt. Pedro Barineau detailed the burglars' risky tactics, climbing power lines and disrupting public services, not with any mere audacity, but with a demeanor mimicking official utility workers, according to CBS News.
The thefts span both day and night, with suspects frequently perched atop power lines or scaling poles with tools in hand. In a reel of footage released by the department, one can see the thieves at work, nearly tipping vehicles as they haul their illicit gains. "There’s been an increase in copper thefts, and the criminals committing these crimes are doing it right before your eyes. They’ll go to any length using pole saws, handsaws, ladders, even climbing utility poles," Barineau said, as per FOX 4 News.
Recently, Garland police apprehended three individuals after a chase, finding them with a U-Haul truck blocking traffic, allegedly partaking in the theft of copper from a utility pole. Reportedly, $10,000 worth of copper cables was discovered in the truck. Lt. Barineau emphasized the importance of community vigilance and encouraged residents to report suspicious activity immediately by calling 911.
The Garland Police Department's "See Something, Say Something" campaign underlines its commitment to combatting this surge in thefts. The offenders have been creatively using unmarked personal vehicles, adding a layer of deceit to their operations. "These criminals might look official with a reflective vest and hard hats, but don’t be fooled. They’re not official, and their vehicles are unmarked and often just regular cars, vans, or trucks," warned Lt. Barineau in a public service announcement, as cited by FOX 4 News.
