Two busted for copper theft - RCMP
Report of suspects burning metal in April led to discovery of stolen items, say Mounties
A tip from an eagle-eyed member of the public led to the discovery of stolen copper and the arrests of two suspects in Haneytown early last month, reports the RCMP.
The Oromocto detachment of the RCMP issued a news release Friday announcing that officers had arrested two people in connection with a case of copper-wire theft in Haneytown, located about 25 kilometres southeast of Fredericton.
“In the morning hours of April 4, 2024, members of the Oromocto RCMP were advised by a concerned citizen that two suspects were burning copper in their backyard,” the release said.
“Police officers attended the residence which resulted in two arrests, a vehicle being seized, and recovered what is believed to be stolen copper wire and other items.”
The Mounties indicated the items found at the site are believed to be connected with thefts in neighbouring communities that had been reported to police previously.
Officers arrested two Fredericton residents - a 40-year-old man and 41-year-old woman - and released them on conditions and promises to appear in Fredericton provincial court July 17.
Theft of copper wiring has proven to be a recurring and serious problem throughout New Brunswick in recent years, the RCMP reports, noting the losses to businesses, private individuals and government have been substantial.
“Copper wire thefts also pose a significant risk to public safety as it can limit access to 911 and other critical infrastructure,” the release said.
Key to law-enforcement efforts to combat the trend and the damage, it said, have been tips from the public about suspicious activity.
Anyone who witnesses such activity at electrical substations or power poles is urged to contact their local police agency.
Those with information that could help further investigations are asked to call the Oromocto RCMP detachment at 506-357-4300.
Anyone wishing to do so anonymously can relay tips through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the secure P3 Mobile App or submitting online through Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.
The investigation into the Haneytown matter is ongoing, the RCMP release said.
The Fredericton Independent can be reached at ftonindependent@gmail.com.
As regular readers know, I'm not in the habit of omitting names when they're available.
As the charges haven't been laid in court yet, the RCMP hasn't released the names.
Names?