Springfield City Utilities says in recent weeks, thieves have taken the underground copper wiring between street lights in several sections of the city, leaving those areas without adequate lighting.
In another area, more than a mile of overhead copper cable was taken from utility poles.
C-U says utility customers are the ultimate victims of these crimes.
A news release from the utility states besides the cost to repair and replace the stolen material, the situation is compounded by delaying work on other projects for the community.
City Utilities and local law enforcement are asking for the public’s help in stopping the thefts and potentially identifying the people responsible for copper theft.
You can help by calling 911 if you notice or have recently seen unusual activity around electric utility equipment in your neighborhood or other areas, notice damage or missing electric line or equipment, see or suspect workers not identified with C-U equipment, vehicles, clothing or identification, or are suspicious of work being done late in the evening, overnight or unexpected electric utility work during a weekend.