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Tuesday, April 08, 2008Stricter laws sought to curb metal thefts
Stricter laws sought to curb metal thefts
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
The Grand Rapids Press
GRAND RAPIDS -- Reacting to a recent rash of metal thefts, former Grand Rapids City Commissioner Roy Schmidt wants to beef up state laws to combat copper thieves.
Last month, thieves were caught on tape removing catalytic converters from vehicles at a Northwest Side business. The thieves want valuable metals found in the parts.
Schmidt worries proposed copper legislation does not go far enough to include catalytic converter thefts from commercial vehicles. He also wants to make sure any legislation does not harm reputable scrap metal dealers. Schmidt, who is seeking the 76th District state House seat, plans to contact state legislators.
There are laws pending dealing with theft of copper and building materials. But the problem is getting worse and needs to be addressed, Schmidt said Monday.
"The best place to start is with the reputable dealers and work together to find ways for them to self-govern and help our state Legislature fashion effective laws to force compliance," he said.
2008 Grand Rapids Press
2008 Michigan Live. All Rights Reserved.
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