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NH Electric Co. Offers 10K Reward Over Copper Thefts

LACONIA, N.H. (AP) -- The New Hampshire Electric Cooperative is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever stole copper from two substations recently.

Copper wire was stolen from a substation in Bridgewater on June 25 and from a substation in Meredith on July 9.

WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Laurie Kirby reports

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A utility spokesman says in both cases the thieves cut through a chain-link security fence then cut and removed copper ground cables which were under the electrical equipment. Both thefts resulted in a loss of power during repairs and damage to $25,000 voltage regulators.

Authorities say the copper is likely being sold for scrap as it can fetch $3 to 4$ per pound.

The utility has warned that stealing from a substation can result if serious injury or death.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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