REWARD OFFERED AFTER COPPER THIEVES HIT KNOTT COUNTY SUBSTATION

ASHLAND, Ky. (WTVQ) – A reward is being offered to stop copper thieves targeting facilities in eastern Kentucky.

Kentucky Power says thieves cut fencing around the Beckham substation in Knott County on Tuesday and stole about 900 feet of copper wire from spools leftover from recent construction.

The cost of the copper wire and damage to the fence is estimated at about $2,000.

Kentucky Power says many of its substations are located in remote areas, often making it difficult to detect copper thieves.

Copper theft often results in power surges that can damage equipment in homes and businesses and cause power outages. The cost due to loss of equipment, materials and repairs is also high.

Kentucky Powers says the risk thieves take to steal copper isn’t worth it.

“Anytime you go into a substation, you’re dealing with high voltage lines,” said Everett Phillips, Kentucky Power’s managing director distribution region operations. “Stealing copper is extremely dangerous and a foolish thing to do. The theft causes damage to Kentucky Power property, creates hazards for customers and employees, and puts people at risk for fatalities and injuries for minimal gain.”

Kentucky Power is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to prosecution. Anyone who sees suspicious activity near a substation is asked to call 1-866-747-5845.