Louisville, Ky. – Two men were arrested Saturday night after Louisville police caught them stealing copper wire from the interstate near I-65 and I-265 (Gene Snyder Freeway).
Theft in Progress and Police Response
According to a Facebook post by Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD), officers were called to a theft in progress involving copper wire. Upon arrival, they established a perimeter while other officers searched for the suspects.
Officers discovered two men “actively stripping and burning the infrastructure wire” in an attempt to hide its identity.
Suspects Identified and Charges
The men were identified as:
- 54-year-old Robert Kelly
- 43-year-old Daniel Bentley
Both men were arrested and face charges of criminal mischief and trespassing of key infrastructure.
“The suspects admitted to stealing the wire from the interstate guardrail to sell as scrap metal,” LMPD reported.
During the search, police found a small amount of meth on Kelly, according to his citation.
Court Appearance
Kelly and Bentley are scheduled to be arraigned Monday morning, September 29. Authorities continue to investigate whether additional charges may be filed.
Risks and Warnings
Officials warn that stealing copper wire from highways and infrastructure is dangerous, as it can lead to serious injury or traffic accidents. Residents are reminded to report suspicious activity near highways or critical infrastructure.
Conclusion
The arrest highlights ongoing concerns about copper wire theft in Kentucky and its impact on public safety and infrastructure. Law enforcement urges the community to stay vigilant and avoid illegal scrap metal activities.
Have you seen suspicious activity near your neighborhood? Share your experiences in the comments below.
