Approximately 1,000 pounds comprising several large barrels of wiring was stolen from the Oak Harbor Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 7392 last weekend.
It’s not the first time in recent history this has happened.
Last year, someone stole about $100 of wire that was left near the Conex recycling container located behind the VFW, according Myron Brundage, senior vice commander of the post.
This year, someone broke the lock on the container sometime Saturday night or early Sunday, stealing roughly $2,500 worth of copper wiring intended for recycling.
A report was filed Sunday morning with the Island County Sheriff’s Department.
Along with their other recycling programs, including cans, glasses, cellular phones and retired flags, the VFW collects all types of wires to be recycled for cash.
The money raised helps to support VFW programs, scholarships and services.
With the help of local contractors, organizations and residents, the VFW takes any type of wire, from industrial copper wiring to broken toaster wires to Christmas lights.
Last year, they were able to raise roughly $1,700 through wire recycling.
“What’s disappointing is that we were gonna take it (to be recycled) next week,” Brundage said.
Given the weight and mass of wiring taken, Brundage said he suspects this year’s theft involved more than one person.
The thief seemed also seemed to be savvy to what kinds of wire fetch the highest price, leaving the cheapest wire types behind.
When the theft was discovered early Sunday, a couple of the barrels were left outside the container and wire was strewn across the area, Brundage said.
“Either someone spooked them or they were in a hurry,” Brundage said.
Despite the setback to their fundraiser, the VFW will continue to gather and recycle wiring with increased security measures that will soon be put in place.
“It’s a shame because so many people donated,” Brundage said.
“It’s aggravating.”
To report information about this theft, please call the Island County Sheriff’s Department at 360-678-4422.
