TROY (WWJ) - Troy police nabbed a couple of thieves in the process of stealing copper from the former Kmart headquarters after patrols heard noises coming from the building last weekend.
The department said they arrested a man and a woman on Sunday, Oct. 1 when officers at the site along Big Beaver Road saw a section of damaged fencing around 10:30 a.m.
The property has sat vacant for nearly two decades. The fencing was erected around the area over a month ago in preparation for a planned demolition.
After inspecting the fence, officers spotted an unknown vehicle parked under the parking deck and had their suspicions further roused when they heard power tools and banging coming from inside the building.
According to the department, police walked in on the couple as they attempted to strip cooper piping.
During the pair's arrest, police discovered the woman was carrying crystal methamphetamine, two crack pipes and a small rock of crack cocaine in a black leather fanny pack.
The items were seized and the couple were taken to the Troy Police Lock-up facility.
The man was charged with breaking and entering with burglar's tools while the woman was charged with breaking and entering with intent and possession of narcotics less than 25 grams.