The stolen wire was meant for the VA hospital’s electrical system.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Louisville Metro Police is investigating a copper wire theft that occurred on Feb. 1 at the Veterans Affairs hospital under construction on Brownsboro Road.
Police said a suspect cut through a locked fence and trespassed onto the property.
LMPD believes the suspect later sold the stolen copper wire to a pawn shop in Illinois.
The wire was intended for the hospital’s electrical system, and LMPD estimates the total loss at around $20,000.
Authorities are working with multiple agencies, including a police department in Illinois, and expect to make an arrest soon.
Brad Silveria, director of Metro Alcoholic Beverage Control, said the issue goes beyond simple theft.
“They’re not stealing copper wire, they’re stealing our safety,” Silveria said. “It’s taking our ability to dial 911. It’s taking our ability to get emergency critical services from LMPD to any first responder.”
A Louisville ordinance requires second-hand metal recyclers to obtain a license, and Silveria noted that several sellers have yet to comply.
He said the department plans to crack down on those violations.
Officials encourage anyone with information about the theft to call the anonymous tip line at (502) 574-LMPD (5673).
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