New ISRI council to help tackle metals theft

United States – The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) has gathered a select group of experienced law enforcement officers, prosecutors and security personnel from around the country in a bid to combat the on-going problem of metal theft.

The specialists come together within ISRI’s newly-established Law Enforcement Advisory Council, which will aim to develop an ‘advanced and comprehensive approach’ to metals theft, including a ‘multi-layered training programme’ and greater outreach efforts to assist law enforcement, ISRI notes.

‘The recycling industry has long been on the front lines as part of the solution to metals theft, working closely with local law enforcement and prosecutors to deter crime and creating a nationwide scrap theft reporting system to help in the investigation and capture of thieves,’ comments ISRI president Robin Wiener. ‘We look forward to working closely with this esteemed group of law enforcement professionals and relying on their expertise to effectively assist local law enforcement in combating metals theft.’

Parties involved in the Law Enforcement Advisory Council include the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, Wellesley Police Department, the National Sheriffs’ Association and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Countless reports of stolen material have reached the authorities of late, extending from metal scrap taken from recycling yards and stolen catalytic converters to copper wire from railroad tracks.

For more information, visit: www.isri.org