Theft Delays School Construction

Stolen copper reportedly worth $50,000

HARLINGEN - Copper thieves delay the construction of a new Harlingen elementary school.

Police say the thieves stole $50,000 worth of copper tubing. Investigators tell us the suspects used a saw on the property to break a nearly tamper-proof lock.

David Osbourne of the Harlingen Police Department says the demand for cooper is up and thieves are getting bolder.

He says the theft at the elementary school looks like an organized hit.

"They cut it to fit the vehicle or trailer they were going to haul it in," he explains.

But Osbourne says stealing the copper might be easier than selling it.

Kevin Bauer works at Pioneer Recycling, one of Harlingen's most popular recycling centers.

He tells us they're strict when buying scrap metal.

"We take down daily record of what they bring in, from one pound to 1,000 pounds," he says.

The company follows state-mandated rules and regulations, asking every seller for a state-issued driver's license.

Bauer says no exceptions are made.

"If they don't have a license and they're on of our regulars, we have to turn them away," he tells us.

The seller's vehicle information is also recorded.

Workers say they want to have answers when officers start by looking for thieves.

Bauer says legitimate sellers don't mind.

"They'll ask us why were taking their license. They don't give use any problems," he tells us.