The Register-Herald, Beckley, West Virginia

Local News

November 9, 2012

Mullens police investigating failed copper theft at store

By Mary Catherine Brooks Wyoming County Bureau Chief

Mullens Police Department is investigating damages to industrial refrigeration units at Wayne’s Supermarket, resulting in thousands of dollars in damages.

“Would-be copper thieves attempted to cut a piece of copper pipe at Wayne’s Supermarket in Mullens,” according to Chief Ray Toler.

“The thieves cut into the main freon line, causing $30,000 in damage and lost meat.

“The line cut was a main feed to supply the coolers.

“The thieves were unable to get the copper due to the freon leaking from the lines,” Toler explained.

“The coolers have been repaired, and the store had to discard thousands of dollars in product.”

Officers are currently reviewing surveillance videos.

Additionally, the police department, in conjunction with the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Department, is investigating the vandalism of a dozen vehicles in Mullens and Maben areas Wednesday between 2 and 8 a.m., Toler said.

“Several vehicles had tires slashed with a knife, and one vehicle had the back glass broken out,” Toler said.

Vandals also damaged the fieldhouse and concession stand at the Mullens Athletic Field, Toler said.

Anyone with information concerning any of these incidents are urged to phone the Mullens Police Department at 304-294-6666.

— E-mail: mcbrooks@register-herald.com

 

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