TheIndyChannel.com

ticketnetwork
Indiana News
E-Mail News Alerts
Get breaking news and daily headlines.
Browse all e-mail newsletters
Related To Story

New Target For Metal Thieves Putting Drivers At Risk, Police Say

Police Report Rise In Theft Of Copper Wire At Railroad Crossings

POSTED: 8:11 pm EDT August 26, 2008
UPDATED: 8:41 pm EDT August 26, 2008

A new trend in metal thefts could put drivers at risk if trains lose communication after copper wires at railroad crossings are stolen.

There has been a rash of the thefts recently on the rail line between Indianapolis and Anderson, police said.

"The wire thefts have disrupted the railroad operations severely over the last couple of weeks with the numerous thefts. I know of at least three nights, three separate occasions, where they've come back and taken the signal wire," Indianapolis Police Environmental Enforcement officer Brad Craig told 6News' Jack Rinehart.

Many of the thefts of the wires -- which control crossing gates as well as railroad communications -- have occurred in broad daylight, police said. Last month, environmental police arrested a man stripping wire from railroad switches just east of downtown.

"You're looking at a possible felony charge of criminal recklessness because the act they committed resulted in the potential of someone being severely injured or killed," Craig said.

Once the wires are taken, cutting communication, train operators are required to immediately stop and wait for repairs. Many railroads, including CSX, are in the process of replacing their overhead copper wires with buried fiber optics and microwave communications.

Links We Like
Sponsored Content
There is no absolute number of drinks per day that defines alcoholism. Learn the behavior and body reactions that constitute alcoholism. More

If you’re starting to feel like your home needs a little warmth, try these helpful hints to make your living space just a little more cozy. More

If you’re feeling like you’re not doing what you’re supposed to, take this quiz and take control of your working destiny. More

With the holiday season fast approaching, most of us plan to repeat the new-age tradition of online shopping. Check out the best sites and find that perfect gift for less. More

Don’t be left out. Make the switch to Digital TV.
Sponsored Links