The Selma Times-Journal

A copper theft, reported Saturday, adds to a growing list of copper thefts in recent months.

Edward Allday, a Selma area contractor who lives in Marion Junction, reported Saturday that copper pipe valued at $600 and copper wire valued at $70 had been taken from his garage on Feb. 5.

Allday could not be reached for comment in regards to the theft. The suspect also took a chainsaw valued at $460.

According to the police report, the contractor suspected a former employee of taking the items. No hate bias is suspected.

On Feb. 11, the Dallas County Sheriff&8217;s Department arrested two men and seized 100 pounds of stolen copper wire.

Following the arrests, Dallas County Sheriff Harris Huffman reported 11 thefts in Dallas County, and three thefts in both Lowndes and Perry counties.

Copper thefts have also been reported at Calhoun Foods and area residences.

In August 2007, three men pled guilty on copper theft charges for a building on Riverview Street. Later that month, two men were arrested in connection with copper thefts at the old All Lock building on Water Avenue.

In May 2007, copper was taken from the old Winn-Dixie building on Dallas Avenue.