Sioux Falls Business Suffers $20,000 Loss From Copper Coil Theft

While it's true that temperatures are already starting to climb across Sioux Falls and throughout South Dakota. Resulting in many residents bracing for another stretch of hot, humid South Dakota summer days. And while most of us are simply planning ways to stay cool, one recent incident here in Sioux Falls had nothing to do with staying cool; instead, it was all about acquiring some cold, hard cash!

Sioux Falls Police are currently investigating a theft that happened near West 57th Street and South Louise Avenue, one of the city’s busiest commercial corridors.

According to Dakota News Now, a suspect broke into a local business recently and made off with several thousand dollars’ worth of evaporator coils taken from multiple outdoor air conditioning units.

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Obviously, the thief wasn't attempting to stock up on replacement parts for his or her home air conditioner for the sweltering months of June, July, and August. They instead intend to sell the high-grade copper and aluminum found inside the coils for some quick cash.

But this wasn’t a minor grab-and-go situation. Authorities say the total value of the stolen coils, combined with the damage left behind to the cooling units, is estimated to be around $20,000. That leaves the affected business not only dealing with a significant financial hit, but also potentially without reliable air conditioning heading into the hottest months of the year.

The location of the theft, right in the heart of a heavily trafficked retail and business area, has raised concerns about similar crimes as temperatures rise and demand for cooling systems increases.

Evaporator coils are often targeted by would-be thieves because they are easily accessible in exterior air conditioners, and the coils contain valuable metal that is appealing to thieves looking for a quick and easy payday.

Police are asking anyone in the Sioux Falls area who may have seen suspicious activity around West 57th and Louise or has information about the incident to come forward. You can contact Sioux Falls Crime Stoppers at (605) 367-7007 or submit a tip online.

The information given will remain confidential.

10 Most Dangerous Cities in South Dakota

Cities on the east and west side of the Missouri River have made the latest list of South Dakota's Most Dangerous Cities for 2021.

Roadsnacks recently released its most 'Dangerous Cities' list and here in The Mount Rushmore state there are a few surprises, especially at the top. To determine the most dangerous cities in the state, Roadsnacks looked at the FBI's report on the latest violent crime, along with property crime statistics.

And surprisingly, the town with the most murders per capita in the state has less than 3,000 residents. Take a look at the list below.

For a look at the detailed list, visit roadsnacks.com Story Source: Roadsncaks