Copper Thefts in Woodstock

If you have ornamental copper decorations in your front yard in Woodstock, you'd better keep an eye on them.

Last week two copper bird baths were stolen from a front yard about three blocks from the Square. The residents believe they were stolen at night by someone who believed them to have value as recycled copper. Woodstock Police took a report.

Think there is much of a chance that they'll get them back? About as much chance as snow tomorrow morning!

If you do have copper fixtures or items in your yard, be sure to photograph them and have prints on hand to give promptly to police officers who take reports. Know the measurements and know the estimated value. There is always a chance that an officer might have made a contact with the thief but not realized that items in his possession were stolen.

Copper has some recycling value. Not a lot, perhaps, compared to the cost of replacing the stolen items. And certainly those who are accepting the stolen items have got to suspect they are stolen. So the cops ought to know where to go next to find out who fenced the stolen goods.

Better yet, get yourself a barkless German shepherd and put him on guard in your yard.

© 2008 GUS PHILPOTT