A criminal trend of copper thefts continues in Medicine Hat, with another incident happening just last week. A pair of suspects have been arrested and charged in connection. Police called this latest incident in the southeast Alberta city “a significant break-and-enter and copper wire theft.” It happened on Nov. 4 at a local industrial property in the Box Springs area. According to police, the target was “large quantities of copper wire and copper components” found inside the industrial equipment. “The theft caused substantial disruption to business operations and resulted in an estimated loss and damage exceeding $300,000,” police said in a release. Investigators, with RCMP assistance, executed a search warrant at a Redcliff, Alta., home the following day. Police said they seized suspected stolen copper and equipment consistent with wire theft, stripping and processing. They said they also seized a small quantity of fentanyl, a prohibited firearm and ammunition. Jordon Street, 40, and Shane Yanke, 50, were arrested. Street has been charged with: Yanke has been charged with: Both remain in custody. Street is next scheduled to appear in court on Monday, while Yanke is slated for Dec. 1. Copper thefts have ‘a significant impact’ Police in Medicine Hat also investigated multiple, unrelated copper thefts last month. There was an Oct. 20 incident at an industrial facility in the city. Police said access was gained by cutting through fences. Police said $2,000 to $3,000 worth of “copper-containing cable and related equipment” was stolen. Two individuals were arrested and charged in connection after the execution of a search warrant at a home. And when police announced that, they noted another October investigation involving “allegedly stealing copper wire and selling it to recycling facilities for profit.” In that investigation as well, two individuals were arrested and charged in connection after the execution of a search warrant at a home. Police said they seized about $5,200 worth of copper from the home. At the time, police said copper thefts “continue to have a significant impact on local businesses and critical infrastructure.” Police encouraged anyone with information about “copper thefts or suspicious activity involving industrial materials” to call them at 403-529-8481. Police said anonymous tips can also be provided through the Medicine Hat Police Service (MHPS) app.
