Candidate for the Darwin award...

[Jim Goose]

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-08-2...-thief/4215404

Electric shock for alleged copper thief

Posted 7 hours 10 minutes ago
Map: SA

A man allegedly trying to steal copper cabling has received a severe electrical shock.

Adelaide police said they, and emergency crews, went to a factory in Pinda Street at suburban Kilkenny on Tuesday night to investigate reports of a man with burns.

Police said they found the Wingfield man, 32, inside the factory with burns to his left hand, head and thighs.

They allege he entered a fenced-off electrical substation and grabbed onto a bar containing 6,350 volts.

A teenager from Glandore, who also was at the premises, called emergency services.

He allegedly told officers the pair entered the premises to steal copper cabling and ignored substation warning signs.

He is now facing trespass charges and has been given bail.

The man with burns is also expected to face charges.

As a sidenote the theft of copper wire has become a major issue all over the country.

In Brisbane a few weeks ago i recall that 3 or 4 train stations were closed due to theft of cables...

In Townsville a few months ago several large cable reels were stolen from NORQEBs yard.

Been reading articles nearly every few weeks of people who are risking electrocution by cutting LIVE wires and stealing cables... stupidy knows no bounds!