STATUS: Approved

Alert Details

Theft Type:
Reporting a Theft
Theft of:
Copper Wire from Communication Lines
Date and Time of Theft:
10/26/2025 09:00
Broadcast:
10/30/2025 8:34:18 AM
Location
United States Tarboro NORTH CAROLINA 27886 EDGECOMBE 3309 NC 33NW

Materials

Metal - Copper and Brass
Name Brand/Serial: Brightspeed
Number of Catalytic Converters
Color:
Length:
1000
Diameter:
0.258
Weight(lbs.):
1000
Total Dollar Amount:
45,000.00 (Estimated)
Additional Identifying Characteristics:
The Edgecombe County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an ongoing series of copper wire larcenies targeting Brightspeed Communications infrastructure throughout Edgecombe County, North Carolina. Since January 2025, there have been 16 confirmed thefts involving the removal of copper telecommunications cable and related hardware. The incidents have caused widespread service interruptions and infrastructure damage across multiple rural areas of the county Recent activity suggests an escalating pattern and geographic focus within the Tarboro and western Edgecombe County area. • Most Recent Incidents: • 2025-10-27 – 3309 NC 33 NW, Tarboro (repeat location from 2025-10-14) • 2025-10-23 – 1737 Fishing Creek Road, Tarboro • Geographic Concentration: The majority of incidents have occurred along the NC 33 NW, NC 97 E, and Legget Road/Battleboro corridor, extending through Tarboro, Battleboro, and Macclesfield. • Modus Operandi: The offenders’ method of operation is consistent across all events. In nearly every case, copper telecommunications lines are cut and removed at or near creek crossings and other low-visibility rural access points. These areas typically offer limited lighting, reduced traffic, and natural concealment from passing motorists.

Law Enforcement Information

Agency Name:
Edgecombe County Sheriffs Office
Phone Number: (252) 824-3611
Email Address:
jamesholloman@edgecombeco.com
Officer Name:
James Holloman
Case Number:
2501193
Broadcast Radius:
100 miles
Special Handling:
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