Indiana Police Say Metal Scrappers Endangering Public Safety

State police and the Indiana Department of Transportation say public safety is being endangered by metal scrappers.

The state officials say the problems persist despite additional security measures and the dangers scrappers face by stealing live electrical wires. They say the thefts lead to darkened highways, threatening the safety of drivers.

They also say highway lighting wire theft in Indiana has cost taxpayers more than $300,000 in repair and replacement costs. They are asking for the public’s help, asking people if they see anyone around highway lighting poles to call state police or 911.

State police say they have increased patrols around highway lighting to try to combat the problem and INDOT crews are patrolling the hardest hit areas day and night.