Co-ops, SC law officers team up over copper theft

BLYTHEWOOD, S.C. (AP) — The Electric Cooperatives of South Carolina are partnering with some of the state’s law enforcement officials to try to prevent copper theft.

Representatives from the cooperatives are taking part in an event on Friday with law officers including State Law Enforcement Division Chief Mark Keel, U.S. Marshal Kelvin Washington and Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott.

Officials are planning to outline a partnership with CrimeStoppers that is designed to raise public awareness about the high financial costs and serious dangers associated with copper theft. Organizers say they’ll discuss ways citizens can become eligible for cash rewards by reporting copper thieves.