Copper Thieves Target Zion United Church of Christ

Strategic Insights -

Copper thieves have been targeting Zion United Church of Christ in Lenoir, with stolen motors, compressors, and air conditioning units causing significant damage and financial losses to the church. Property manager Michael Schelle reported a series of thefts since August, with the latest incident involving the removal of a Mitsubishi wall-mounted air conditioning unit on October 8. The church is facing a significant debt to its budget to cover the costs of replacement, with estimated costs ranging from $23,000 to $29,000. In an effort to improve security, the church is working to install surveillance cameras and upgrade its security measures.

Key Takeaways:

  • Since August, local thieves have stolen motors, compressors, copper pipes, and air conditioning units worth $30,000 from Zion United Church of Christ in Lenoir.
  • The thieves are suspected to be stealing copper lines and parts for scrap or reselling the air conditioning units and compressors illegally.
  • The church will have to completely replace three units, with estimated costs ranging from $23,000 to $29,000.
  • The church has insurance to cover some of the cost, but faces a significant deductible, which may impact its budget.
  • The church is working to improve security by installing surveillance cameras and upgrading its security measures.
  • The Lenoir Police Department is also making more frequent patrols in the area.
  • A similar incident was reported at Outcast Community Church, highlighting the need for churches to take proactive measures to prevent theft and vandalism.

Statistics:

  • Estimated value of stolen property: $30,000
  • Number of thefts since August: 5
  • Estimated cost of replacing two larger A/C units: $23,000
  • Estimated cost of replacing the smaller unit: $6,000
  • Deductible for insurance coverage: unknown
  • Number of surveillance cameras planned: unknown