Scrap metal thieves unbolt fire hydrants in Irvine

IRVINE (Scrap Monster) : A fresh scrap metal theft incident has been reported from Irvine. Thieves are reported to have grabbed a pair of fire hydrants owned by the Irvine Ranch Water District from the streets of Irvine Oct 10^th. This is the second such incident reported in three weeks. Earlier, three hydrants were reported stolen on Sep 19^th.

Average scrap brass prices are $1.60 per pound. Iron averages 10 cents a pound. At a total weight of 100 to 200 pounds, that would make a hydrant worth a maximum of about $320. The relatively high metal prices have triggered theft incidents across many cities.

The phenomenal rise in metal theft incidents and the escalating metal scrap prices have prompted California lawmakers to pass two bills in 2012 and 2013. Senate Bill 1387 made it a crime for junk dealers and recyclers to possess fire hydrants, manhole covers and other related items. Senate Bill 1045 made those caught in possession of the items liable for any damages, including repair and replacement costs.