Seven accused masterminds of a brazen conspiracy to loot copper from power substations in Northeast Ohio have been hit with federal indictments, according to Steven M. Dettelbach and Stephen D. Anthony.
The gang, which included Christopher M. Butts, 26, and his brother Michael T. Butts, 33, is alleged to have orchestrated thefts from 24 substations over a five-month period, putting utility workers and the public at risk.
‘These defendants not only endangered lives but also threatened our national security infrastructure by targeting energy facilities,’ Dettelbach warned, adding that such actions would ‘not be tolerated.’
The accused are charged with conspiracy to damage energy facilities, a federal statute specifically designed to protect critical infrastructure like electrical substations. The indictment details 25 successful thefts and five failed attempts, with at least some of the defendants selling stolen copper to area scrap yards for over $15,000.
With potential repair costs exceeding $100,000, the impact of the heists was substantial. The investigation was a collaborative effort between the FBI and various local law enforcement agencies, including the Avon Lake Police Department and the Medina County Sheriff’s Office.
The severity of their actions will determine the sentences for the accused, who now face the prospect of federal prison if convicted.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Organized Crime|Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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