By Payton Tholstrup

Images courtesy of Clay County KS Sheriff’s Department

In a recent social media post, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office reminded residents that copper wire thefts are an ongoing problem across Kansas. Rural areas like ours are frequently targeted.

“Thieves often steal insulated wire from utility poles, irrigation systems, along with other sources, then burn off the insulation in remote spots including ditches along public roads, to extract the valuable copper inside,” they said.

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is asking for residents to be on the lookout for the following:

· Suspicious vehicles or people near irrigation pivots, abandoned farms, or extremely rural roads, especially at night.

· Piles of burned insulation, ash, or remnants of wire in ditches or along county roads.

· Unusual burn sites or smoke in unusual areas

“These thefts cause costly damage, power/internet outages, and can cause safety hazards. If you see anything suspicious, do not approach. Call us immediately at 785-632-5601 or dial 9-1-1 for emergencies,” said the Clay County Sherrif’s office.

Tips can also remain anonymous. Just send them a private message or email them at mwerbin@cysheriff.org