Siloam Springs, ARK – Siloam Springs, Arkansas, is facing an uptick in copper wire thefts, particularly targeting construction sites and power poles across the city. As the city undergoes rapid expansion, thieves are taking advantage of the growing number of construction projects, which often leaves sites inadequately monitored.
According to Deputy Chief Derek Spicer of the Siloam Springs Police Department, the increase in thefts is directly tied to the construction boom that has spread throughout the town. “There is so much construction all over town that the police officers just simply can’t be everywhere at once,” Spicer explained. This lack of constant surveillance has made it easier for criminals to strike under the cover of night, often wearing dark clothing to blend in with the surroundings.
The stolen copper, which is sold at scrap yards, is relatively easy to move but harder to trace. While sellers are technically required to be identified when they bring in copper, the process is not always strictly followed, making it challenging to track down the perpetrators. “They’ll take it to a scrap yard and, technically, they are supposed to be identified, so it can be easier to track these people down. But, that doesn’t always happen,” Spicer added.
While the immediate financial gain from selling copper may seem attractive, the risks involved in stealing it far outweigh the rewards. Copper is priced at around $1.20 to $2.50 per pound, but thieves often put themselves in life-threatening situations to obtain it. Many resort to climbing power poles to cut wires, exposing themselves to dangerous electrical hazards and the risk of falls. According to Glenn Severn, the superintendent of Siloam Springs’ electric department, such actions can have severe consequences.
“It can cause issues with the electric system itself. It could cause voltage imbalances, and could really disrupt power in certain areas,” Severn explained. He noted that while copper itself may not be exorbitantly expensive, the true cost lies in the extensive work needed to replace the stolen materials and restore the system. “Sending a crew out to re-install all of it costs much more in the grand scheme of the aftermath.”
The thefts have also raised concerns about the potential for widespread power outages and the disruption of essential services. Thieves who improperly cut wires risk damaging critical components of the electrical infrastructure, potentially causing significant disruptions for local residents and businesses.
In response to the growing problem, local authorities are urging construction site supervisors to take preventive measures, including securing sites with locks and additional lighting to deter thieves. “We want to make it as difficult as possible for these criminals to succeed,” said Spicer.
The Siloam Springs Police and Electric Departments are also encouraging the public to report any suspicious activity. Anyone with information about the copper thefts is asked to contact the Benton County Sheriff’s Office or dial 911.
As the city continues to grow, authorities emphasize the importance of increased vigilance to protect both the infrastructure and the safety of the community.