DATE:February 05, 2025
LOCATION:S 96 Road and E Cedar / Cortland
TIME:7:13 am
OFFENSE:Copper theft fromCenter Pivot Irrigation System
CASE:2025-0424
**Public Alert: Recent Copper Theft Raises Concerns in Gage County**
Beatrice, NE—The Gage County Sheriff’s Office is issuing a public alert following a recent theft of copper wire from a local agricultural area. This incident, which occurred sometime between the end of harvest in 2024 and January 31, 2025, has raised concerns about the potential for other unreported thefts in the area.
The theft occurred near S 96 Road and E Cedar Road, where approximately 1,275 feet of control cable or alignment wire—essential for operating a center pivot irrigation system—were stolen. Additional main power wires and cables were also cut from the tower control and junction boxes on the irrigation system’s eight towers. The estimated value of loss and damages exceeds $30,000.
The Gage County Sheriff’s Office encourages residents to remain vigilant and report any unusual activity in or around their area.
The Sheriff’s Office urges anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity around the time of the incident or has information related to this theft to come forward. Additionally, property owners are advised to review their security measures to prevent potential thefts, and farmers should check their pivots for loss or damage.
For more information or to report suspicious activity, please contact Southeast Communications at 402-223-4080 to report a crime in progress or for other information to contact the Gage County Sheriff’s Office at (402) 223-5222.
Millard W. Gustafson
Sheriff
Rob Sandersfeld #9032
Deputy Sheriff