SA Police issue warning about stealing copper after thief shocked during attempted crime in Nairne

A MAN was taken to hospital after suffering an electric shock while trying to steal copper from a factory in the Adelaide Hills.

Home invasion at Enfield police at the scene. Police car in front of the house.

A MAN was taken to hospital after suffering an electric shock while trying to steal copper from a factory in the Adelaide Hills.

It has prompted SA Police to issue a warning about the dangers of stealing copper.

The 36-year-old Nairne man suffered an electric shock while allegedly interfering with a low- voltage power box at a property in Nairne about 12.40pm on Saturday.

He was attempting to remove copper from the box at a disused factory on Main Rd, when he was shocked.

Although injured, he was able to make it back to his home.

An ambulance was called and he was taken to the Royal Adelaide Hospital for treatment.

Hills Fleurieu police will interview the man when he has recovered sufficiently and expect he will be charged with theft and unlawfully being on premises.

Superintendent Craig Wall, officer in charge of the Hills Fleurieu LSA, said copper was not valuable enough to risk your life for.

“Interference with electrical equipment is highly dangerous and may not only result in criminal prosecution, but severe injury or death,” he said.

“Simply put, he is lucky to be alive.

“This is a timely warning to anyone stealing copper, the same danger applies with new buildings where wiring has not been completed.

“Theft is not the only offence you may commit — under the Electricity Act anyone interfering with electricity infrastructure can be jailed for up to two years or fined up to $10,000.

“They also would be liable for the costs associated with the restoration of supply and repair and or replacement of damaged equipment.”

Originally published as SA Police issue warning about stealing copper after thief shocked during attempted crime in Nairne