KWCH - Kansas News and Weather - Wichita Copper Thieves Target Sprinklers

Wichita Copper Thieves Target Sprinklers

(WICHITA, Kan.)

As the price of copper goes back up, so do the amount of thefts for the metal. In the past, thieves ripped off air conditioners and light poles. Now, they have a new target.

When Paulette LeValley lifts up a green cover at the edge of her Plastic Surgery Center business, she reveals a crime. "We think they just hammered through this," she pointed to a PVC pipe, "or hacksawed it. And just broke out the center that holds the valve, and that's what they wanted for the copper."

LeValley discovered the sprinkler system's vandalism Tuesday. She also discovered how much it would cost to replace. "This," she pointed, "just to replace this piece,and the valve, will cost over $600." 

Some back flow valves can weigh as much as 40 pounds. With copper going for $3 a pound, thieves learned stealing one brings them some fast money.

"They're stealing it for the brass and the copper, that's in it," said Ron Powell. He installs back flow devices. "Retail value of this is about $757," he explained.

Powell has taken calls for five new devices in the last ten days. "They're breaking them and stealing them for the metal. They're taking it in and someone's buying it."

Wichita police are asking scrap metal shops to be on the lookout for people bring in multiple back flow valves. LeValley is buying a new back flow protector -- and a lock. If you have a sprinkler system -- check to make sure you still have the valve.

If your water's off, you won't notice it missing. But if your water is on, you'll see a big puddle of water.