Thief Got $22 for $300 in Metal, Police Say

An Easton man is charged with stealing a pile of scrap metal from the Pennsylvania Water Rescue facility in the city and receiving about $22 from a scrap yard for the material valued at about $300.

A Water Rescue official told city police the organization usually sells the scrap at recycling centers to help the organization offset costs.

David L. Williams, 54, admitted to police he took some of the scrap on Jan. 29, explaining he did not see any “no trespassing” signs at the Water Rescue facility at 444 N. 13th St., police said.

The material Williams allegedly stole consisted of 20 motor vehicle brake rotors, a stainless steel sink and a turbo unit for a motor vehicle.

Easton Patrolman Charles Leauber wrote in a criminal complaint that he spoke with Water Rescue captain/president Marvin McCammon on the afternoon of Jan. 29. McCammon, explaining the scrap was stolen from the rear of the building, said the material was worth about $300.

A security camera captured Williams’ alleged theft. Police were able to get four color photos from the camera and took them to Easton Iron & Metal, 1100 Bushkill Drive, where an official was able to provide the last name “Williams” after looking at the photos.

A police detective provided additional photos that helped identify the individual, and on Leauber’s return visit to Easton Iron & Metal on Feb. 2, the official produced a Jan. 29 receipt signed by Williams.

Leauber spoke to Williams by telephone on Feb. 7. Williams admitted taking the brake rotors and mentioned not seeing any “no trespassing” signs.

Williams, of 1428 Butler St., third floor, was arraigned Saturday afternoon by on-duty District Judge Jackie Taschner of Palmer Township on a charge of theft by unlawful taking or disposition.

He was released on $1,000 unsecured bail.