Photo: Justin Sullivan / Getty Images News / Getty Images
On the Omaha Public Power District OPPDTheWire.com website, the power district focuses on thieves who have tried to steal copper from the utility.
The district warns the crime causes power outages, potentially fatal electrical shocks, and creates unnecessary dangers and work for OPPD crews, who have to go make the repairs.
The power district points out copper theft is illegal, and OPPD’s high-voltage power lines are extremely dangerous.
The utility has seen four incidents in a recent 10-day stretch where would-be copper thieves caused outages, fires, or explosions.
They say anyone caught stealing copper wire will face criminal charges.
The utility says it's already working to minimize any incentive thieves might have to steal, including the use of new materials and infrastructure that limit the need for copper wiring.
(Picture from Getty Images)