Early Monday morning, Douglas County Sheriff’s deputies arrested two individuals suspected of stealing sprinkler system backflow prevention valves. According to the sheriff’s office, a witness heard an electric saw and observed two people taking copper-related materials before leaving in a gray sedan.
Deputies located the vehicle shortly after and found burglary tools such as a Sawzall and large bolt cutters inside. They also discovered four brass backflow prevention valves that had been cut from supply pipes, each valued between $1,000 and $2,000. Illegal narcotics were also found during the arrest. Both suspects were taken into custody.
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office reminded residents that thefts of sprinkler system backflow prevention valves have recently increased. These crimes often occur overnight but can happen at any time. Criminals are targeting exposed backflow valves for their value as scrap or resale items.
The sheriff’s office advised residents to check their sprinkler systems regularly for signs of theft or damage. Missing or damaged backflow devices may lead to expensive repairs and potential water contamination problems.
“If you discover a theft, attempted theft, or observe suspicious activity around sprinkler systems in your neighborhood, please report it immediately to the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office,” the department stated. “Your vigilance helps protect your property and the safety of our community.”
