Copper Theft on the Rise in Arizona

Copper has become a hot commodity on the black market in Mesa, Arizona. The problem has grown so vast, that legislatures are re-thinking legislation that regulates the methods that scrap metal businesses employ, when purchasing copper wiring and metals, with untraceable origins.

Copper has become a hot commodity on the black market in Mesa, Arizona. The problem has grown so vast, that legislatures are re-thinking legislation that regulates the methods that scrap metal businesses employ, when purchasing copper wiring and metals, with untraceable origins.

According to the Mesa yard of Arizona Recycling Corporation, copper can rake in up to $3 a pound and brass can bring in up to $1.50 a pound. Because copper is a profitable business, local thieves are targeting street light fixtures and lighting fixture boxes at parks for their prime wiring. As of December, 24 miles of copper wiring had been stolen in Mesa alone.

Many of these thieves are stealing these metals to support their drug habit, they are not only committing a crime, they are also risking their lives in the process. Every time they rip the metal wiring from an electrical box or tear it from the ground, they are at risk of electrocution.

Theft Crime Attorney in Tempe

Theft crimes cover a broad spectrum of theft offenses including petty theft, grand theft, identity theft,burglary, robbery, auto theft, shoplifting and more. Theft crimes can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the value of the item stolen and other facts surrounding the case. Penalties can involve jail or prison sentencing, heavy fines, restitution, community service, probation and a permanent criminal record.

If you have been arrested for a theft crime in Tempe or the surrounding areas, it's extremely important that you hire an experienced Tempe criminal defense attorney right away. At Knowles Law Firm, PLC, we have extensive knowledge as both prosecutors and defense attorneys; therefore we have insight into the prosecution's case against you. We use this knowledge to our advantage, by helping formulate the best defenses for our clients. When your future is at stake, you can't afford to take a chance without an aggressive attorney working on your behalf.

Contact a Tempe Theft Crime Lawyer from our firm today for a free case evaluation.