Six arrested in connection to St. Paul copper wire thefts

(St. Paul, MN) -- Six individuals from St. Paul are charged with stealing copper wire from streetlights and selling them to a scrapyard in Blaine, Minnesota.

The group caused significant damage to city infrastructure, costing millions. Despite evidence implicating Dem-Con Metal Recycling in the purchase of marked wire, the business faces no charges.

The thefts highlight bills currently circulating through the Minnesota legislative session, which would require a license for anyone who sells the wire in the state. It would also ensure sale of copper wire is documented and traceable.