SALT ROCK -- Emergency officials say thieves have again targeted an emergency tower in Cabell County, this time taking copper from a tower in Salt Rock that is key to communications with the Salt Rock Volunteer Fire Department.

Thieves targeted the Porter's Knob communications tower about 10 a.m. Friday. They cut a fence to gain entry and stole copper wiring that extended from the meter to the building, said Cabell County Emergency Services Director Gordon Merry. It caused nearly $3,000 in damage.

Cabell County Sheriff Tom McComas said his deputies are investigating. He encouraged anybody with information to call 911 or 304-743-1594. The information can be provided anonymously.

Copper and other metal thefts have become a problem when the market prices for the metal are high. Thieves can sell the scrap metal for a profit. In February, thieves targeted an American Electric Power station in the West End of Huntington, knocking out power to thousands in Cabell, Wayne and Lincoln counties.

Communications towers have also been a frequent target with 10 towers, including one in Salt Rock, affected in Cabell County between late December and January. No arrests were reported, despite the work of multiple police agencies.

The tower damaged Friday is the lone emergency communication link to the Salt Rock Volunteer Fire Department. Merry said it also is utilized by 911, EMS, other volunteer fire departments and state agencies.

"Basically it could have a direct effect on somebody's injury or fire," Merry said in referencing that seconds count when responding to vehicle crashes, fires and other emergencies.

Thieves got away with four copper wires overall. One was a ground wire. Merry estimated repairs would cost $3,000, including $1,000 to replace stolen wire.

"These thefts and acts of stupidity, it's just bad for society," McComas said. "It's all stealing. The problem with the burglary, theft and vandalism here is that it puts people in peril."

Friday's theft did not disrupt emergency operations, Merry said.

The string of thefts has caused Merry to convert his sites from copper to aluminum, which presents no value to thieves.

McComas said his deputies were in contact with other law enforcement agencies Friday to share information and develop potential leads from the earlier investigations. The sheriff called that a necessary step, but he said there are so many thieves who steal copper that his deputies may exert time and resources to chase the wrong group.

The Cabell County Commission passed a resolution in January to implore the state's congressional delegation to push for legislation that would make theft or damage to communication infrastructure a felony crime. The commission also said it would look into installing electric fences and razor wire to deter criminals from the sites.

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Emergency officials say thieves have again targeted an emergency tower in Cabell County, this time taking copper from a tower in Salt Rock that is key to communications with the Salt Rock Volunteer Fire Department.