Baltimore County considers bill to curb theft of metals

October 29, 2009

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Faced with an alarming escalation in the theft of copper, aluminum and other metals, Baltimore County is considering legislation to require scrap metal dealers to report daily transactions to police. In a work session with the County Council on Tuesday, Police Chief Jim Johnson said the worldwide demand for scrap metals has emboldened criminals who strip homes, vehicles and businesses of materials they can sell. Recording the identification of each seller and reporting information electronically every business day to the police "will lower crime and stop this avenue for moving these goods," Johnson said. Baltimore City is considering similar legislation, and officials from both jurisdictions said they will push for a state law during the next General Assembly session.

- Mary Gail Hare | The Baltimore Sun

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COMMENTS (2) | Add Comment

Did you ever think that the person in the truck was wanted for a serious crime and the officers safety was the priority!(obviously not) Their main goal is to go home safely to their families at the end of their shifts. By the way the pawn system database clears many theft and burglary cases every year and this will also be a great tool for law enforcement. Maybe you should think of the whole picture before you post something that you have no knowledge of. i guess you're just angry you received a seat belt ticket, by the way traffic enforcement solves other crimes too!

ravenssuperbowlbound (10/29/2009, 4:16 PM )

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On first look, such legislation sounds like a good idea. I think that there is also similar legislation that was passed years and years ago that requires pawn shops to keep detailed reports. That was supposed to have the same effect that this "metal" legislation is supposed to have. The last time I checked, we still have a large number of thefts in our area and the thieves are still able to find a fence for the stolen property. When I see ten county police vehicles surrounding one guy in a pick-up truck on Philadelphia Rd in White Marsh I can imagine why it is that all of the metal is getting stolen from construction sites...............too much attention on seat belt violations and the like instead of a wise use of a police force. Ten patrol vehicles for one car stop!..........which leaves no patrol vehicles for patrolling the areas that need it. The answer to the problem is not more legislation.

Signtopia (10/29/2009, 9:22 AM )

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