News-Argus/Nick Hilton

Copper theft forced Gary Brogden, owner-operator of Goldsboro-area Ace Heating & Cooling, to install a brand new air conditioner at the Top Hat Dance Studio on Tuesday. Top Hat owner and local eye doctor Charles Zwerling noticed a hot evening at the studio, prompting him to find the air conditioner gutted for copper scrap. Brogden said he tried to repair the original unit, but damages were too severe.

For more information see Precious metal theft a problem, which includes a video report on the issue.