Copper Thieves Hit Bridgewater Center For Mentally Challenged Kids Repeatedly
BRIDGEWATER (CBS) - It's a place mentally challenged children go to for recreational therapy, some of which includes therapeutic horseback riding.
But lately, The Bridge Center on Pine Street has been the target of criminals looking to steal valuable copper and those that rely on the center are the ones paying the price.
According to Bridgewater Police, copper gutters were stolen from the building last week. On Tuesday, the condenser was reported stolen on Tuesday. That means no heat for the main building.
Thirteen de-icers were also taken, which means no water for the horses, and light sockets were cut from the walls. A socket wrench, a circular saw, a hammer, copper wiring, an archery set and pieces from a golf cart were also taken.
One building now reportedly has no electricity and 45 feet of copper tubing has been stripped from the barn, leaving the restrooms out-of-order.
Police said the suspects broke several windows while gaining entry to the buildings.
"Yesterday we were hit hard by thieves - they took many tools, sports equipment, and ransacked offices and sheds looking for more. It made for a challenging day, but that is something we are used to overcoming," the non-profit said on its Facebook page Wednesday.
The current price of copper is $3.69 per pound.
"The Bridge Center staff is ever so grateful to the support of its Board of Directors, and for our contractors (The Hunter Plumbing Group & MJK Construction) for coming to our immediate aid. We are also thankful for our volunteers that helped out in the midst of all the chaos to keep riding lessons going. This how we survive any challenge, because of people that care. Thank you all!"
