Moe police yesterday charged six people after a lengthy investigation into copper thefts from a former hospital site in Newborough.
From February to May this year, the alleged offenders forced entry to the site on Ollerton Avenue multiple times and stole more than 800kg of electrical cabling and plumbing.
The stolen copper is estimated to be worth anywhere from $10,000.
Police recovered an allegedly stolen truck and seized tools and equipment used to remove copper on February 21.
The truck has been returned to its owner.
Following a thorough investigation and with thanks to assistance from the public, police tracked down seven alleged offenders.
A 54-year-old Traralgon man was charged with burglary and theft offences and will appear before the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on Monday, July 7.
A 43-year-old Cranbourne West man, a 38-year-old Cranbourne man and a 55-year-old Chadstone woman were charged with burglary and theft offences.
The trio will appear before the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 20.
A 40-year-old Port Welshpool man and a 43-year-old Morwell man were charged with burglary and theft offences.
They will appear before the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 13.
A 55-year-old Morwell man was interviewed by police and is expected to be charged on summons for burglary and theft offences.
Investigators wish to thank the public for their assistance.
