EVANSVILLE, Ind. — Joseph D. Elpers Jr., a former foreman, has been arrested on 19 counts of theft after police say he sold thousands of dollars worth of stolen copper wire.
According to the Evansville Police Department, the investigation began last December after Elpers’ former employer reported suspected theft. Authorities allege Elpers was terminated after the company discovered copper wire belonging to the business had been taken and sold.
Investigators said job estimates might call for 200 feet of copper wire, but if only 175 feet were used, the remaining material was supposed to be returned to the company. The employer told police they believed Elpers instead sold the leftover wire and kept the proceeds.
Police reportedly uncovered records showing Elpers sold copper wire to at least four salvage companies dating back to 2021. The total profit from those sales allegedly exceeded $23,000.
During an interview, Elpers claimed the copper he removed from job sites was scrap material. However, officers said company documentation he signed indicated all leftover materials remained company property.
Elpers was booked into the Vanderburgh County Jail on a $5,000 bond and has since bonded out. The case remains pending.
