ISRI launches website to help combat metal theft

The Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries (ISRI) has launched StopMetalsTheft.org, a new website designed to assist in the fight against the crime of metals theft.

ISRI, an association of recycling firms based in Washington, D.C., says the new site serves as an online resource for law enforcement, prosecutors and the recycling industry by providing practical tools, success stories, news, legal resources, FAQs and background on fighting metals theft.

"The recycling industry is fully committed to being part of the solution when it comes to preventing metals theft," says Robin Wiener, president of ISRI. "StopMetalsTheft.org provides law enforcement, prosecutors, the recycling industry and other community stakeholders with key information and techniques that can be used to help prevent metals theft, as well as build cases and prosecute crimes when they do occur. Through our continued outreach efforts, we hope to strengthen our existing partnerships while building new ones."

Benefits to the site include:

•    The ability to send theft alerts to local recyclers;
•    Success stories as submitted by law enforcement across the country;
•    Tools geared towards law enforcement, prosecutors and recyclers;
•    A comprehensive glossary of terms on stolen commodities; and
•    Industry insight and knowledge provided by an ISRI team of experts.

ISRI also recently upgraded its ScrapTheftAlert.com, an online alert system to notify scrap yards of nearby metals theft, and announced the creation of the Law Enforcement Advisory Council that is comprised of experienced law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and security personnel who are tasked with developing a multi-layered training program to assist law enforcement in metals theft prevention and prosecution.

Brady Mills, a retired U.S. Secret Service agent, was hired to serve as the director of law enforcement outreach to work closely with the law enforcement community.