Racine officials seeking help regarding stolen catch basin covers

RACINE -- The Racine Police Department is warning residents to watch out for suspicious activity following a string of thefts regarding catch basin covers.

Officials say the City of Racine has experienced over 60 catch basin cover thefts since November 29th.The catch basins are cast iron gates located in the curb, gutter or the roadway and are targeted by criminals for "scrap" metal or recyclable value.

"I don't even know why they would think of stealing a grate from the street," neighbor Kerri Ortell said.

Officials say the thieves have struck busy intersections like 21st and Green Bay Road and residential areas like Wheelock and Great Elm.

The owner of Kral Scrap Metal says a grate's iron may only fetch a scrapper $10 to $20, and says no reputable scrap yards will accept these grates.

Racine County Police Sgt. Martin Pavilonis says it is unclear where the grates are being scrapped.

"It could be outside the area, northern Illinois. It could be around here," Sgt. Pavilonis said.

Authorities say the thefts are dangerous and warn that pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists could be seriously injured or possibly killed unexpectedly encountering a large, open hole in the curb lane of the roadway.

Police say the thefts are possibly occurring during the overnight hours.

The suspect vehicle will possibly be a truck or van and may sag considerably due to the weight of catch basin covers.

"If they could get a good description of the person or the vehicle involved that would certainly help us. We`re looking for the public to call us immediately and not wait," Sgt. Pavilonis said.

Residents who do observe a possible theft in progress are urged to immediately contact the Racine County Dispatch Center at 262-886-2300, Crimestoppers at 262-636-9330, or by texting RACS plus the message to CRIMES (274637) and referring to Tipsoft I.D. #TIP417 with your text message.

Officials say it will cost the city upwards of $130 to replace each stolen grate.