Costly copper thefts under investigation in Dallas Co.

From the West Alabama Newsroom–

The Dallas County Sheriff’s Office needs your help to find a man wanted for stealing copper — and causing thousands of dollars in damage in the process.

Investigators are looking for 35 year old Durall Laister of Plantersville.

Fifty one year old theft suspect Monica Morris of Chilton County was arrested Thursday afternoon.

Sheriff Mike Granthum says they’re suspected of climbing up telephone poles — and cutting down live phone lines — to steal the copper wiring and aluminum casing.

He says the thefts shut down several businesses — disrupted phone service in several areas — and caused thousands of dollars in damage.

“It’s dangerous to our community. And it interrupted our businesses. I mean, if somebody needed help, they couldn’t call out,” said Granthum.

“And it takes days. I mean it’s not something you can just repair. this goes for miles down the road. I mean, it interrupt several homes, hundreds of homes, businesses and everything. And so, we’re going to bring these people to justice.”

If you have information concerning the whereabouts of Durall Laister — call the Dallas Co. Sheriff’s Office at 874-25-30 — or Crime Stoppers at 215-STOP.

The case remains under investigation.