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Crime & Safety

Sprinkler Head Thieves Target Redlands

Entire blocks have had sprinkler heads stolen, Redlands Police Officials said.

Redlands police are alerting residents about the recent increase in brass sprinkler head thefts in neighborhoods throughout the city since May.

Police spokesman Carl Baker said the thefts are widespread and not limited to one area.

“It’s been all over the city,” said Baker.

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Although police have not identified the exact number of residents affected by the thefts, they estimate that least 20 houses have had sprinkler heads stolen, said Baker.

There are probably thefts that have gone unreported, which may mean the number of cases could be higher, Baker said. Entire blocks have had sprinkler heads stolen while other incidents have been isolated to one house.

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Thieves also are taking off with sprinkler assemblies, said Baker. Most of the thefts are occurring at night and police are encouraging residents to report any suspicious activity.

Baker said that Redlands police investigators have been contacting local recyclers to see if any of the sprinkler heads are showing up at their sites.

Metal thefts have been occurring for years but the missing sprinkler heads are new to police, Baker said.

Loma Linda police also have noticed an increase in copper wire being yanked out of light poles. Loma Linda residents should be on alert for these thefts.

Anyone noticing suspicious activity should call 911. They also can contact Redlands police online  at ci.redlands.ca.us/police/coplogic/start-report.html or visit the police website at www.redlandspolice.org.

Residents also can call Redlands police dispatch at 909-798-7681.

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