DETROIT (WWJ) - Police are asking for the public's help in identifying a suspect caught on camera after he allegedly stripped copper piping from a high school in Detroit over the weekend.
According to the Detroit Public Schools Community District, the suspect is accused of burglarizing Cody High School on Oct. 29,, causing thousands of dollars in damage and disabling the building's heating system after he made off with valuable piping.
According to the FBI, copper thieves target businesses, buildings and vacant homes and steal the metal before selling it to recyclers — the thefts can often prove lucrative.
The school has been closed since Monday due to having no heat, but officials told WWJ on Wednesday morning that the pipes have been replaced and the building is back open.
Authorities say they're now focusing on finding the person responsible.
"DPSCD has invested in upgraded security cameras outside and inside its buildings to protect students and staff but to also protect taxpayer assets," district officials said in a release. "This is how the photograph was obtained after the break in."
According to Assistant Superintendent Chrystal Wilson, the suspect on surveillance is described as a a Black male, approximately 6' tall and weighing approximately 190 lbs.
Anyone with information on the alleged suspect has been asked to contact Lt. Tamika Lance-Jenkins at 313-748-6015 or Detective Kelly Taylor at 313-748-6089 of the Detroit Public Schools Community District Public Safety Department.
Officials said anyone with information can remain anonymous.
