Copper stolen in Charleroi
Charleroi Borough is asking residents to be on the lookout for thieves who are coveting copper and air conditioners. The problem has escalated in the last couple months, and at least four air conditioners have been stolen – including three large commercial units – according to borough manager Donn Henderson.
“Copper thieves are everywhere, but the air conditioner units being stolen has kind of reached an epidemic here,” Henderson said.
The borough is offering a $100 reward for any information that leads to an arrest. Henderson said some vacant homes and businesses are being targeted, and residents should not assume that anyone removing items from a vacant property is a hired contractor.
“They need to have a heightened awareness,” Henderson said. “If someone pulls up in a truck and they’re only carrying copper out, they’re probably not a contractor.”
If residents notice anything suspicious, they are advised to call police and write down a license plate number and vehicle description.
There also have been at least two reports of scammers scouting the area. They generally offer home-improvement services and disappear after taking a portion of the money up-front. Henderson said residents should keep in mind that anyone soliciting in the borough must have permission from the borough and pay a fee, and residents should be wary of anyone who says he wants “to look around” one’s home and give an estimate.