Police in Greensboro, N.C., are investigating the disappearances of more than 75 cast-iron manhole covers and storm water grates from city streets. The items are most likely being stolen and sold to scrap metal companies for cash, according to local officials.
"There is a market somewhere for these lids, and they are a high commodity," said Tim Elmore of Greensboro Field Operations.
Police are questioning local metal companies in order to help determine potential leads. It has cost the city $60 per cover and grate to replace stolen ones, and the thefts have cost Greensboro taxpayers more than $5,000, according to Elmore.
"It's really becoming a distraction, and it's now getting our maintenance budget," he said. "We didn't budget for this."
Scrap steel prices are around $300/ton., so a manhole cover is worth about $15 or so as scrap. But look at the good side of it, it is all being recycled...... |