Senate bill targets metal thieves cashing in on crime

OLYMPIA – Copper wire, bronze vases from headstones, catalytic converters from vehicles, and aluminum manhole covers are rapidly disappearing in Washington.

Law enforcement officials have linked the theft of these valuable metals to drug crime, and Sen. Rodney Tom, D-Bellevue, is sponsoring a bill that would make it harder to sell stolen metal property.

“We’re experiencing a huge spike in drug-related crime in Washington, especially when it comes to methamphetamine use,” Tom said. “This bill will help cut off a source of funds for people who are looking for quick cash to feed their drug habit.”

Stealing and selling metal materials is an easy source of income for thieves, because stolen metal can be exchanged for cash at a scrap metal dealer without providing any identification. Senate Bill 5312 would require scrap metal dealers to collect the name, address, and signature of customers, as well as keep records of transactions. It would also require dealers to mail checks to their customers instead of paying cash, so that customers have an incentive to provide their real address.

“Public utilities, business owners and the local governments are losing money because of metal theft. Senate Bill 5312 has broad, bipartisan support and will make it harder for thieves to cash in on their crimes,” said Tom.

Tom will testify in favor of SB 5312 before the Senate Judiciary Committee at 3:30 p.m. tomorrow, Wednesday, Jan. 31, in Senate Hearing Room 1 of the John A. Cherberg Building in Olympia.

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