Burglars Target Copper Pipes in 6 Morris Twp. Homes

Burglars have targeted copper piping at six Morris Township homes in recent days, according to Capt. Richard Ferrone, public information officer.

Police have recorded four residential burglaries and two attempted burglaries.

Last Thursday, two homes were burglarized on Crestview Terrace. On Tuesday, two homes were targeted on Old Glen Road, one on Hermes Place and one on Canfield Road.

Police believe that the burglars targeted homes that seemed vacant because five of the six homes had for sale signs on the lawn and little furniture inside, said Ferrone.

Police also believe that the incidents happened early morning before dawn “where forced entry into the residence can be covered up by darkness and the sound of air conditioners running. Once inside work to remove the pipe quickly focuses to the lower floors.”

Theft of copper pipes, tubing, and wiring has been on the rise in recent years because of the increased value of scrap copper. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that this once-minor issue has grown into a $1 billion a year problem, according to Ferrone. 

Construction sites, abandoned buildings and commercial heating and air conditioning units are major targets for thieves and usually, the damage from the burglary is higher than the value of the stolen copper.

Morris Township Police are asking residents to keep an eye out if there is a vacant home near them or if a neighbor is on vacation. Anyone with information on these incidents or who may have seen anything suspicious in the area is asked to contact the Morris Township Detective Bureau at 973-326-7480.