As the prices of base metals remain high, incidences of copper theft show no signs of slowing in Florida and nationwide. A number of recent thefts have been carried out by a highly organized crime ring.
The group, which is believed to be based in Florida, operates under the names of legitimate freight companies such as MAM Trucking, JJP, and Freight Star and presents fraudulent shipping documents to make away with entire shipments of cargo without raising any red flags. Earlier this month, the group stole over $500,000 of copper contained in five 18-wheeler trailers from OmniSource, one of the nation’s largest processors and distributors of scrap and precious metal.
As many as six law enforcement agencies on the East Coast have received reports of similar copper theft crimes, which have targeted liquor and other cargo in addition to scrap metal. Recycling centers have been warned to remain vigilant in hopes of stopping this crime ring in addition to other such thefts. Copper theft has been on the rise since 2008, and according to the U.S. Department of Energy, it has evolved into a $1 billion industry.
Video Surveillance Can Help Protect Against Copper Theft
Security cameras on-site captured footage of the trucks that were used in the theft, and such identifying information can be vital in the search for the people behind these offenses. Stealth Monitoring is dedicated to the protection of the property of its clients and works closely with local law enforcement agencies to provide the highest possible level of protection. The combination of constant live video surveillance and extensive coordination and cooperation with law enforcement creates the best possible scenario for preventing crime.
These logistics and trucking businesses are not clients of Stealth Monitoring. Stealth proactive live video surveillance can detect and deter crime in Florida and other states in the U.S., while reducing security guard and other expenses. A Stealth operator could have seen unusual activity like cargo and copper theft, activated a speaker warning to deter the thieves, and called the local police.
Please contact Stealth today for more information to protect your apartment building, shopping center, industrial property, or office building against copper theft. Visit our web site to see actual videos of criminals being apprehended at shopping centers, warehouses, and other businesses.
