Renton offering $1,000 for information leading to arrest, conviction of copper thieves

RENTON -- The city of Renton announced Wednesday it will pay $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone caught stealing copper wire and other metals from its facilities.

Mayor Denis Law said copper thefts alone in Renton have cost the city more than $88,000 in the past six years.

"The costs of these thefts are substantial and borne by our taxpayers," Law said. "By offering cash rewards for tips that lead to arrests and convictions we hope to both identify individuals responsible for these losses and reduce the number of thefts."

Police Chief Kevin Milosevich said, "As the price of scrap metal, particularly copper, rises, we've seen the number of thefts go up exponentially. If you have any information about copper or metal thieves, please contact us and give us a chance to put these criminals where they belong."

To report information about suspects or suspicious activity, call 911.

For more information, visit rentonwa.gov.