Six people charged over $10k copper thefts at Moe Hospital site at Newborough

Six people have been charged following a lengthy investigation into $10,000 worth of copper thefts at the abandoned old Moe Hospital.

Six people have been charged following a lengthy investigation into copper thefts of up to $10,000 at the old Moe Hospital site at Newborough. Picture: Jack Colantuono

Six people have been charged following a lengthy investigation into $10,000 worth of copper thefts at the abandoned old Moe Hospital.

A police spokesman said the accused allegedly broke into the Ollerton Ave site at Newborough and stole more than 800kg of electrical cabling and plumbing between February and May this year.

“Officers recovered an allegedly stolen truck and seized tools and equipment, used to remove copper, on February 21,” the spokesman said.

The truck has since been returned to its owner.

“Following a thorough investigation, with thanks to assistance from the public, officers tracked down seven alleged offenders,” the spokesman said.

The hospital has been left as an eyesore with smashed windows. Picture: Jack Colantuono

A 54-year-old Traralgon man was charged with burglary and theft offences and will appear before the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on July 7.

A 43-year-old Cranbourne West man, a 38-year-old Cranbourne man and a 55-year-old Chadstone woman were charged with burglary and theft offences and will all appear before the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on August 20.

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A 40-year-old Port Welshpool man and a 43-year-old Morwell man were charged with burglary and theft offences.

They will appear before the Latrobe Valley Magistrates’ Court on August 12.

The old Moe Hospital at night. Picture: Jack Colantuono

A 55-year-old Morwell man was interviewed by police and is expected to be charged on summons for burglary and theft offences.

“Investigators wish to thank the public for their assistance and continue to encourage the proactive reporting of criminal behaviour,” the spokesman said.

The Moe Hospital, which closed in 1998, has been used by squatters and targeted by vandals over the years.