Authorities Seek Leads After Copper Stolen From Solar Facilities

JOHNSTON COUNTY, N.C. — Investigators are looking into two copper thefts reported the same day at solar farm sites in Johnston County, including one case involving nearly $40,000 worth of stolen materials.

According to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, approximately $39,480 worth of copper was reported stolen from a solar farm under construction on Buffalo Road, about seven miles north of Selma. Investigators said seven reels of copper were taken from the site.

In a separate incident, deputies responded to a reported theft at a solar farm on Guy Road near Clayton.

Authorities said someone cut a fence to gain access to the property sometime between June 7 and June 8. Approximately $2,500 worth of copper was reported stolen.

Copper thefts have long been a concern for utility companies, construction sites and industrial facilities because of the metal’s high resale value.

The two thefts were reported on June 8. Investigators have not said whether the incidents are connected.

The Johnston County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate both cases.