Second suspect arrested in delaware copper wire thefts; police seek additional suspect — Delaware State Police - File Photo.

DOVER, Del. — Delaware State Police have arrested a 39-year-old man from Greenwood in connection with a series of copper wire thefts from irrigation systems in Kent and Sussex Counties. Michael Plummer was taken into custody on August 23, 2024, following an investigation into thefts that occurred between April 12 and August 16, 2024.

The investigation, conducted by detectives from Troop 3 and Troop 4, focused on multiple incidents in the Bridgeville, Greenwood, and Houston areas where suspects trespassed onto private properties, cut copper wire from pivot irrigation systems, and caused significant damage. Through investigative efforts, detectives identified Plummer and Dorothy Wooleyhand as the suspects involved.

Plummer was arrested and taken to Troop 5, where he was charged with several felonies, including multiple counts of theft and criminal mischief. He was arraigned at Justice of the Peace Court 2 and released on a $21,610 unsecured bond.

The charges against Plummer include:

Theft over $1,500 where the Victim is Over 62 (Felony) – 4 counts
Theft over $1,500 (Felony) – 4 counts
Criminal Mischief over $5,000 (Felony) – 8 counts
Conspiracy 2nd Degree (Felony) – 4 counts
Theft under $1,500
Criminal Mischief under $1,000 – 2 counts
Criminal Trespass 3rd Degree – 10 counts

Detectives continue to seek public assistance in locating Dorothy Wooleyhand, who is also wanted in connection with the copper wire thefts. Anyone with information regarding Wooleyhand’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact Delaware State Police.

The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to address the significant damages caused by the thefts across the region.

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