A man has been charged with 25 offences after several alleged copper wire thefts across southeast Queensland.
Detectives from Gympie Criminal Investigation Branch and Child Protection Investigation Unit investigated multiple reports of theft or damage to copper cabling in Gympie, Sunshine Coast, Indooroopilly and surrounding areas between June to November 2024.
Complex investigations led detectives to execute a search warrant at a property in Pie Creek (Gympie) on November 11 where police located and seized approximately 30kg of copper wiring, damaged insulation, and drug paraphernalia.
A 46-year-old Jones Hill man was arrested at the property and has since been charged with 12 counts of wilful damage, nine counts of stealing and one count each of dangerous operation of a vehicle, evasion offence at night, possess utensils or pipes that had been used, fail to take reasonable care and precautions in respect of syringe or needle.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to reappear in Gympie Magistrates Court on December 9.
Wide Bay Burnett district Detective Acting Inspector Melonie Geck said this is a reminder that property offenders will be caught and dealt with.
"This was an extensive investigation that dealt with more than 18 complaints of copper wire thefts across southeast Queensland," DI Geck said.
"Despite creative attempts to steal property, detectives continue to identify, locate and deal with offenders."
Anyone with information or who has experienced similar incidents are urged to contact police.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
