Police investigate copper thefts

  ASHLAND and WASHBURN, Maine — Police are investigating the theft of copper material from one of Ashland’s larger mills and a vacant residence in Washburn.    The mill theft was reported to the Ashland Police Department on Jan. 2.
“We were notified last week that about $10,000 in copper was taken from the Fraser mill off Route 11 in Ashland. Officer Tyler Cote was assigned to investigate,” said Sgt. Jarad Carney, of the APD.
Carney said the department welcomes public input as the investigation continues.
“We’re following a couple leads but appreciate any tips we receive,” said Carney.
“We’ve obtained some information and have a few leads. If anyone knows anything about this theft, please let us know. At this point, the investigation is ongoing,” said Chief Cyr Martin, of the APD.
Anyone with information about the theft can call 435-6626 or Crime Stoppers at 800-638-8477.
In Washburn, police were notified Jan. 4 that “something wasn’t quite right” at a home located at 2398 Parsons Rd.
“A Dead River delivery driver had gone to the house and discovered the tank fuller than it should have been. It had been about a month or more since oil was delivered and more oil should have been used to heat the home,” said Chief Roy Guidry, of the Washburn Police Department. “Family went to check and found copper piping had been stolen.”
Guidry said upon investigation, it was found a person or persons had entered the house through a basement window.
“The home is owned by Corris Pinette and was vacant at the time. Family went to do a check of the property and discovered copper piping had been taken out of the basement. The reason no fuel had been used is because the pipes were removed and no water was flowing through the heating system,” said Guidry.
Guidry said this is the third theft of copper from a Washburn property this winter.
“The person(s) responsible appear to be targeting vacant homes. This latest case must have taken place within the past month or so, since Dead River’s been making regular delivers there,” said Guidry. “The estimated value of the stolen pipes is more than $1,000.”
Anyone with information can call Guidry at 435-4043 or contact Crime Stoppers.