By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
Police in Ashland and Washburn are investigating the theft of copper piping from homes in their communities. As “snowbirds” prepare to head south for the winter, local law enforcement are advising property owners to have a plan in place for someone to watch their homes in their absence, in an effort to deter vandals and thieves.
“We recently had a report of copper piping taken from the basement of a vacant home in Ashland. We’re currently following tips and the case remains under investigation,” said Chief Cyr Martin, of the Ashland Police Department.
Martin indicated a second home on the Ashland/Nashville Plantation town line was hit, but that case is under investigation by the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office.
In Washburn, police are investigating at least two cases of homes having copper piping removed.
“One home was on the Washburn Road, while the other was on the Caribou Lake Road. Both homes are for sale and no one was living in them at the time of the theft,” said Chief Roy Guidry, of the Washburn Police Department.
Like the Ashland case, Guidry said the copper plumbing was removed from the basements of the two Washburn homes.
“It caused extensive damage to both properties,” said Guidry.
Police are asking for the public’s help in preventing future criminal activity.
“If anyone sees a suspicious vehicle around an abandoned or vacant home, notify us,” said Guidry, whose number is 455-4043.
Martin suggested having someone keep an eye on your property, if you plan to be away for an extended period.
“If you’re going to be away, have people check the house regularly. Have them go in and walk around to check if everything’s OK. Checking periodically is a good way to deter criminals. And if you see something you think isn’t right, report it,” said Martin, whose number is 435-6626.
