Amid a bizarre string of thefts, the Prosper Police Department is asking for the public’s help regarding missing stormwater manhole covers.
The theft of these covers is not only a criminal offense but also poses significant safety risks to pedestrians and traffic.
Thus far, police are investigating the theft of some 30 storm drain covers, noting that when taken together, the series of offenses become a felony, according to a news release.
The thefts carry the potential for penalties of imprisonment in a state jail facility for up to two years, with fines possible of up to $10,000. Depending on the circumstances, these punishments can be further increased to higher-level felony penalties, according to the release.
The absence of these storm drain covers puts unsuspecting pedestrians and vehicles at risk of falling into unsecured openings.
Courtney Mackedanz told CBS Texas that she now has to be more careful when she is out with her children or walking her dog.
“I have a seven and a six-year-old. We go on walks, we take bike rides, scooter rides, all those things, and it’s definitely a safety factor for them,” said Mackedanz, per CBS Texas.
The missing storm drain covers could also lead to flash flooding if large debris gets inside the storm drains through the openings.
Prosper PD is urging community members to take the matter seriously and actively participate in protecting public safety and the integrity of the city’s stormwater system.
Todd Rice, spokesman for PPD, told CBS Texas he believes thieves are stealing the covers to try and make a quick buck.
“We suspect they are selling these to provide and sell at scrap shops,” said Rice, per CBS Texas. “I know the typical rate is around $30 for these.”
Police are asking members of the community to promptly report any information regarding missing storm drain covers or suspicious activity.
“If you catch someone in the act, call 9-1-1 immediately. To report stolen manhole covers, call the non-emergency number at 972-569-1000 or by using the myProsper app,” the release read.
While Prosper police deal with thefts of manhole covers, the nearby city of Dallas continues to struggle with crime issues of its own.
Short-staffed and having just over 3,100 officers, the Dallas Police Department has long been looking to add 400-500 more officers, according to the Dallas Observer. Dallas Police Association President Mike Mata reportedly told the publication that the force is short by 400-500 officers.
Dallas sees 57,896 crimes annually, according to NeighborhoodScout, with a crime rate of 44.93 per 1,000 residents.
On a spectrum ranging from “safest” to “most dangerous,” downtown Dallas is considered “most dangerous,” according to NeighborhoodScout, implying the area could benefit from its own dedicated police force or private security force.
