ST. LOUIS, MO – In an effort to address the regional problem of wire theft impacting critical infrastructure, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) executed a search warrant into the illegal sale and purchase of utility wire.
On Tuesday, with the cooperation of a utility partner, an undercover sale of utility wire was conducted at SA Recycling, located at 300 E. Nagel.
Immediately following the transaction, SLMPD detectives executed a search warrant at the business resulting in the recovery of approximately 1,000 pounds of wire.
The investigation remains ongoing and the SLMPD is working with the Circuit Attorney’s Office regarding potential charges.
The department’s broader objective is to disrupt the market for stolen utility wire and ensure recycling companies within the City refrain from accepting prohibited materials.
“This operation sends a clear message: businesses and people that profit from stolen infrastructure will be held accountable,” said Chief of Police Robert Tracy. “We appreciate the cooperation of our partners and will continue to engage other recycling businesses in the area to ensure compliance with the law.”
SLMPD plans to conduct additional outreach and compliance checks at known recycling sites across the City of St. Louis.
