Sheriff: Copper thefts on the rise in the MidlandsRichland Co., S.C. (WOLO)– Richland Co. Sheriff Leon Lott says copper thefts are on the rise in the Midlands and you can help. According to deputies he was charged with Obtaining Money under False Pretenses in reference to selling stolen copper. Deputies estimate McCraw made nearly $38,000 selling stolen copper. The sheriff says you can help by reporting suspicious activity near poles, manholes, cell sites, utility easements, or construction areas. Deputies say utility workers should have marked trucks credentials, or valid work orders and no one should be at any of these locations after sunset.