Three Arrested in Maryland Copper Wire Theft Investigation, Causing Widespread Service Disruptions

Maryland State Police have apprehended three individuals suspected of orchestrating a series of copper wire thefts that led to substantial property damage and significant communication service outages throughout Cecil County. The investigation, which has been ongoing over the past year across the region, has identified Brian Clark Tulley, 55, of Harbeson, Delaware; Stacey Lyn Tulley, 46, of Elkton, Maryland; and David Mark Fenstermaker, 62, of Elkton, Maryland, as the accused parties. They face a range of charges including felony theft of an amount between $25,000 and $100,000, along with multiple misdemeanor theft and malicious destruction of property offenses.

The coordinated thefts targeted active power poles across Cecil County, with copper wire belonging to Verizon being the primary objective. These criminal acts resulted in extensive disruptions to communication services for residents and businesses. The financial impact of the damage and lost materials is estimated to exceed $66,000. The Criminal Enforcement Division Northern Region of the Maryland State Police is continuing to investigate similar copper theft incidents throughout the area, with several investigations still active. Authorities are encouraging anyone with pertinent information regarding these thefts to come forward and contact investigators at 410-996-7814.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Maryland State Police

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