Putting The Heat On Copper Thieves

Dozens of Baldwin County farmers have been hit by copper thieves recently, costing them tens of thousands of dollars.

Thieves have destroyed field irrigation systems, ripping out the valuable copper wiring and selling it for quick cash at scrap yards and recycling centers.

Farmers met recently with State Rep. Steve McMillian, to talk about the problem. McMillan supports tougher copper theft legislation.

Senate Bill 35 has been introduced and will be voted on next month. If the law is passed, transporting illegal scrap metal across state lines would be an automatic felony.

The bill would also make it illegal for scrap yards to give customers cash. Instead, they would be required to mail the customer a check, using the address provided on the driver's license.

McMillan says this would eliminate illegal transactions.