The Kosciusko County Sheriff's Department is cracking down on thieves who steal metal for profit.
Kosciusko County Sheriff's Detectives have been flooded with various metal thefts from residents and businesses in the past several months, according to a press release from the KCSD.Police are working in conjunction with scrap metal businesses to help assist in apprehending possible suspects.
Scrap metal businesses are now using video cameras at unloading areas and payment offices to log all patrons.
They are requiring a photo identification if the payout amount exceeds $100.
Local detectives have been working with other area and county police departments to confer on similar theft patterns and items being taken into surrounding counties.
Aaron Rovenstine, KCSD captain, is asking local businesses and citizens to secure outside metal storage bins and loose metal items.
Rovenstine said some thieves have been stealing metal off abandoned farm equipment and have even stolen metal swing sets from backyards.
Rovenstine believes that the increase in this crime is primarily due to the current economic situation.
KCSD detectives advise that citizens who have information regarding thefts can call the office at 574-267-5667 for the county or 574-372-9511 in the city of Warsaw. Citizens also can use the tip line 24 hours a day at 574-372-2494 and can remain anonymous.
