Detective George F. David, in a press conference, did not provide figures, but said these incidents could be prevented with the cooperation of the community.
David said DPS is also working hand in hand with the recycling centers on island to curb copper wire theft.
“DPS has contacted all the existing recycling centers to coordinate with us immediately whenever somebody tries to sell copper wire,” David said.
The cooperation of the recycling centers, he added, is very important to help solve copper wire theft cases “because they are the first place the perpetrators will go to sell the stolen copper wire.”
Most of the suspects of copper wire theft target abandoned houses and buildings — they climb to the rooftops and cut the main line to be able to get the copper wire, David said.
The scrap copper trade has become a lucrative business on the islands as the price of the metal continues to increase.
Copper wire is in demand in other parts of the world particularly in China.
David said the perpetrators of these theft cases have also switched to stealing items that can easily be sold on the streets like electronics, television sets, i-Pods, games, gadgets and even generators.
Operations Commander Sgt. Sylvan M. Rangamar said individuals whose houses have been broken into can still recover their things if they see them at pawnshops or in other places.
“All they need to do is to call the police for assistance, and show proof that they own the item then we will do our part,” Rangamar said.
On Friday, three individuals were arrested and charged in court for 13 burglary and theft incidents on Capitol Hill and other areas.
