COMANCHE COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged copper theft.
On September 24, during the course of an ongoing copper theft investigation, the Comanche County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at a residence in Protection, Kansas, according to a media relase.
The search resulted in the recovery of approximately 500 lbs. of copper materials believed to be stolen and the arrest of 55-year-old Eric Boyles of Protection.
Boyles was booked into the Kiowa County Jail on requested charges of felony theft and burglary. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. The investigation remains ongoing.
With scrap metal prices increasing, the Sheriff’s Office would also like to remind residents that copper and other metals can become attractive targets for theft. We encourage residents, farmers, businesses, and contractors to take precautions to secure copper wire, pipe, HVAC components, tools, and other valuable materials.
Please pay particular attention to vacant residences, farmsteads, outbuildings, construction sites, and other properties that may be unattended for extended periods. If you observe suspicious activity around these locations, contact the Comanche County Sheriff’s Office.