August 19, 2010

Thieves Targeting Scrap Metal in Memphis

One man’s junk is another’s treasure. A local thief is taking that to heart, as area law enforcement are investigating a series of thefts of a variety of items being targeted for sale as scrap metal. The Memphis Police Department and Scotland County Sheriff’s Department are investigating at least three incidents of missing property, believed to have been stolen and sold at area scrap metal collection sites. Investigators reported the theft of such items as aluminum vehicle wheels, air conditioning units and even a lawn mower. The thefts are believed to have occurred at odd hours of the night. Investigators are encouraging property owners that may have such items to review their property to insure nothing has been stolen. One incident report indicated a suspicious vehicle, leaving officers searching for a black truck or SUV pulling a small, enclosed trailer. Anyone with information on the vehicle or with missing scrap metal items are encouraged to contact the police department or sheriff’s department.