Avista reports copper wire theft

Authorities say more than a half mile of copper wire was stolen recently from an Avista Utilities substation. Avista employees told the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office the wire was stolen from the Dahl Road substation sometime between Oct. 16 and Oct. 24. Another 450 to 500 feet of wire was pilfered from the Little Spokane substation during the same time frame. Crews have spent nearly an entire month between July and October replacing and repairing equipment from copper wire thefts, employees told authorities. Avista estimates the scrap value of the stolen copper at about $595, but says it costs $12,000 to replace and repair. Avista is offering a cash reward to anyone who can provide information leading to an arrest and conviction for those responsible. Anyone with information should call Crime Check at 509-456-2233.