Equipment was stolen from five of the Malden Public Service District's pump stations over the weekend, according to the general manager.
The type of equipment - pump regulators called variable frequency drives - has been stolen from one particular pump station in Tad five times over two years, including twice in the past two weeks, said Chet Williamson, general manager for the Malden PSD.
He said the pump stations stolen from over the weekend included four in Campbells Creek and one on Piedmont Road.
Williamson said the equipment, which is designed to "soft start" pump motors, ranges in cost from $3,100 to $4,500.
The thieves have been cutting fences to access the pump stations, according to Williamson.
He said the cost of the missing equipment has to be transferred to customers' bills, so he's hopeful that anyone with information will call the Malden PSD at 304-925-6997. He also noted that if employees don't catch the missing equipment right away, it could lead to pollution and flooded homes. People can call 24 hours a day.
The Kanawha County Sheriff's Office is investigating.
Deputies took reports Tuesday and last week, according to Sgt. Brian Humphreys of the Kanawha County Sheriff's Office. He said they had no reason to believe any employees were involved.
He said police could accept tips at tips@kanawhasheriff.us, on the website at www.kanawhasheriff.us, or by phone at 304-357-0169.