Surge in Metal Scrap Theft Hits Great Lakes Region, Says ReMA

Scrap Metal Theft on the Rise Across North America

Metal theft is spiking this summer, with the Recycled Materials Association (ReMA) issuing eight ScrapTheftAlerts since July 12 and a total of 24 alerts between May 1 and August 7. These reports indicate a growing threat to metal recyclers and processors across the U.S. and Canada, particularly in the Great Lakes region.

When looking at the alerts by geography, half of all reported incidents occurred in states and provinces bordering the Great Lakes. Notably, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania each reported three separate incidents, while Illinois, Michigan, and Ontario each recorded one. This trend points to a concentration of activity where scrap handling infrastructure is dense and easily targeted.

Meanwhile, thefts are not limited to the Great Lakes. California, Arizona, South Carolina, North Carolina, Mississippi, Virginia, Maryland, and New Hampshire also experienced metal-related crimes. This suggests a continent-wide problem that is not merely seasonal but systemic—highlighting the urgent need for stricter controls and improved site security.

High-Value Metal Theft Cases Raise National Concerns

The financial scale of recent thefts has alarmed both recyclers and law enforcement. Three recent cases each involved losses over $250,000. In Baltimore, criminals stole $345,000 worth of nickel pellets. In DeKalb, Illinois, insulated copper wire valued at $257,000 went missing. In Rocky Mount, North Carolina, thieves took $250,000 in copper chops.

One of the boldest thefts occurred in Los Angeles. Thieves stole three 9,000-pound copper rocket nozzles worth $3 million from a warehouse. The FBI is investigating the case. Agents are searching for “large rocket nozzle cones”—raw and unprocessed. These may be bound for unauthorized resale or export.

Most alerts involve red metals like copper wire, tubes, and pipes. Some cases also include bronze vases stolen from cemeteries. Aluminum is also a frequent target. Thieves have stolen insulated cable, bars, rails, and truck wheels. This trend shows criminals are targeting metals across the full value spectrum.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The spike in scrap metal theft across the Great Lakes and beyond shows rising risks for recyclers and commodity handlers. Copper and nickel prices remain high, driven by global electrification and battery demand. As a result, stolen materials have become liquid assets for organized crime. Stakeholders in the circular economy must act quickly. They need better surveillance, tighter inventory controls, and stronger cooperation with law enforcement. The FBI’s involvement in the Los Angeles case may mark a shift in federal response. Still, prevention remains the first and most critical line of defense.