What happens to confiscated copper?

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office said copper is selling for $3.69 a pound, and that's caused a large increase in thefts.

"It's a problem across the U.S., and it's tied to the price of copper. It's an in-demand item for those who are tied to criminal activity," said Sheriff David Morgan.

With copper thefts hitting homes, businesses, churches, and schools, FOX10 is looked into what happens to the copper that’s collected once the crooks are caught.

Mobile County Sheriff Sam Cochran said considering the number of thefts, they don't see very much of the metal.

"There is not much copper seized that's been stolen. We do recover some that's known to be stolen. But usually, it's without a suspect. If we can't locate the owner, we eventually sell it for scrap but that's in very small amounts," said Cochran.

When deputies do find copper on a suspect, Cochran said it's hard to trace it back to the owner.

"Unless there is some type of special and unique markings someone has placed on their property, there is no way to identify or trace it back to the crime. There is no way to charge someone," Cochran said.

In Florida, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office keeps stolen metal for six months before selling it as scrap metal, and that money goes into a fund.

"If at all possible and we can relocate a particular owner for any material, we do. Just because it's copper, doesn't change the fact it's property that belongs to someone," said Sgt. Jim Hall.

Cochran believes if house bill HB278 to passes, it will help track the copper crooks.

According to Cochran, the bill will require the scrap metal dealers to electronically report who they purchase metals from and the type of metals to law enforcement.

"Instead of where it's being stolen from, they can investigative where it's being sold and link the two together,” said Cochran. “Those selling excess amounts of stolen copper or excess amounts of copper will give them some leads on who may be involved in stealing copper."

Scrap metal employees declined to speak with FOX10, but a man selling metal to the scrap yard thinks the bill will help everyone.

"It will stop them from breaking into schools, taking air conditioners from churches and things like that. They're hurting people."

Until the bill is passed, Cochran said it will be hard to track down the copper and the thieves stealing it.

Cochran said right now, it's difficult to prove a case against someone if you don't catch them in the act of stealing the copper.