Copper thieves hit city reservoir
by Sheila A. Marshall
Staff Writer
Jul 29, 2012 | 31278 views | 0 0 comments | 1 1 recommendations | email to a friend | print

The Thomaston Police Department is investigating a recent theft at the city’s reservoir located on Hannah’s Mill Road.

Officer Robert Ellington was dispatched to that location on July 15, where he made contact with Cornelius Ivey, of the Thomaston Electric Department, who reported that electrical copper line from utility poles leading to pumps at the pumping stations had been stolen.

According to Ellington’s report, a measurement of 1,015 feet, which was six spans of wiring between the utility poles, had been removed.

“A portion of the line was tied to a standing utility pole (seen by Cornelius Ivey), with 1,015 feet leading east towards Hannah’s Mill Road,” Ellington stated.

His initial investigation revealed that equipment and dump trucks owned by Pyles Plumbing Construction had been at the site where the copper line was stolen.

“Victor Cozart, of Severn Trent , which handles the City of Thomaston water and waste water, stated Byron Pyles had wanted their lock placed on the locked gate at the entrance,” Ellington reported.

He went on to say that Pyles Plumbing employees had the lock, which was unlocked and hanging on a chain, on the gate, and that the gate was unlocked the day prior to – as well as the day of – the incident.

This was noted by a water department employee who was on the scene inspecting pumps, the officer reported.

The area was checked for foot prints, but due to heavy rain, none were visible.

Officials estimate the cost to replace the copper line at $500, and the total cost of replacement for power to be restored to the pumps was $1,700.

Authorities say the case remains open and the investigation is ongoing.



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