DPS helps in fighting scrap metal theft

Help is on the way to local law enforcement agencies when it comes to fighting scrap metal thefts.

With the signing and implementation of Arizona House Bill 2314, also known as the “Arizona Scrap Metals Law,” the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) will begin providing analytical and intelligence research support for Arizona law enforcement agencies on Sept. 1, in a joint effort to reduce occurrences of widespread metal theft throughout the state.

The new law requires Arizona scrap metal dealers to record the identity of sellers of non-ferrous metals to include photo, driver license information and fingerprint, when the transaction is more than $25.

Additionally, a description and type of metal will be recorded. Upon completing the transaction, the scrap metal dealers will be required to send the information to DPS within 24 hours for data storage. DPS analysts will maintain the database and provide accurate information to local, county and state detectives for investigations relating to theft of non-ferrous metals from businesses and individuals.

The passing and implementation of House Bill 2314 adds additional language to existing law under Arizona Revised Statutes 44-1642, 1644 and 1646 and requirements for reporting and storage of information.

With the increasing value of copper and other metals, thieves have added these items to their shopping list of merchandise. Metal theft has increased throughout the state and has affected commerce in construction, transportation and private industry.

DPS urges anyone with information on metal theft crimes to contact their local law enforcement agency or call 911 if the crime is in progress.

Metal dealers can view the new reporting form at http://rmin.rissinfo.com