Thieves Targeting Illinois Home Construction Sites

Authorities in southwestern Illinois’ St. Clair County say thieves who are targeting homes that are being built have stolen materials worth more than $500,000 in recent months.

Sheriff Rick Watson tells the Belleville News-Democrat that the culprits have made off with copper wire they can sell for scrap, as well as high-end appliances.

Authorities say thieves took $60,000 worth of items from one Millstadt house in October. That included a $7,000 stainless steel barbecue, a $5,000 gas fireplace and about $5,000 worth of interior light fixtures.

Many of the thefts are taking place at night or early morning.