By Cathy Locke
clocke@sacbee.com
Copper wire thieves continue to plague the city of Davis, bringing the cost of thefts in recent weeks to more than $100,000.
Over the weekend, wire was stolen along the south Davis greenbelt area next to the Putah Creek Bike Path, according to a Police Department news release. In one case, police said, wires were dangerously spliced together causing electrical shorts and minor explosions.
Thieves have focused on park areas near the freeway around the west and south ends of the city. The wire thefts have disrupted lighting in parks and automatic sprinkler systems. As a result, greenbelt areas have been left in the dark, and significant patches of grass and vegetation are beginning to die, officials say.
In the south area of the city, thieves cut wires, then spliced them together connecting the wrong electrical currents. When city electricians attempted to return power to that area, an electrical short caused two minor explosions. No one was injured.
In an effort to catch the thieves and protect the public, Davis police recommend:
• If you see suspicious activities, immediately report it to the Police Department.
• Do not tamper with any wiring. If you see wiring that appears to be exposed or tampered with, immediately call the Police Department. Officers will be dispatched to determine whether a crime is taking place and will notify city electricians of suspected damage.
• Alert children to the dangers of exposed wiring if they use local parks and greenbelts. If they see exposed wiring while playing or walking through the park, advise them to come home and notify and adult.
Call The Bee's Cathy Locke, (916) 321-5287.
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