Two people are facing several charges after a traffic stop linked to a string of copper wire thefts in Lanark County and the surrounding area.
Lanark County Ontario Provincial Police say officers saw a vehicle and two males shortly after 2:30 a.m. on June 19 in an area where cable wires had been cut several times.
Police say the vehicle was stopped a short time later on Harper Road in Tay Valley Township.
Officers say they recovered a large amount of copper wire, break and enter tools, and a small amount of suspected methamphetamine and cannabis.
As a result of the investigation, 38-year-old Dusty Bell of Carleton Place has been charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000, possession of break-in instruments, possession of methamphetamine, driving while under suspension, using plates not authorized for a vehicle, and driving with cannabis readily available.
Police also charged 40-year-old Shawn Antoine of Lanark Highlands Township with possession of methamphetamine, possession of stolen property over $5,000, possession of break-in instruments, two counts of driving while under suspension, and driving with cannabis readily available.
Both accused were released from custody.
They are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Perth on August 8.
The charges have not been proven in court.
OPP say copper wire thefts can create safety risks, service disruptions and costly repairs for property owners, utilities and communities.
Police continue to ask residents to report suspicious activity, especially around utility lines, construction areas, vacant properties or remote roads.
Anyone who sees a crime in progress should call 911.
