.jpg)
WALHALLA, N.D. (KFGO-AM) Authorities in northeastern North Dakota are investigating what may be the largest theft case in Pembina County history.
A co-owner of the former ADM Ethanol Plant in Walhalla says thieves ripped off his salvage operation at the facility. He and his partners purchased the moth-balled plant in April and have been tearing out valuable copper and stainless steel to sell. By chance, early Friday, he spotted the thieves driving off with his semi full of his precious metal and gave chase. The two thieves eventually ditched the truck and got away on foot.
The co-owner, who asked his name not be used, says the good news is he got the truck and copper back. The material is worth about $150,000. The bad news: At least one other burglar driving a getaway vehicle with a trailer made off with more copper, power tools, generators and other equipment the salvage team had inside the plant. that loss is estimated at $30,000.
Cavalier Police Chief Adam Ziegler says he's working with the Pembina County Sheriff's Office on the investigation and following up on several leads. He may ask for assistance from the state Bureau of Criminal Investigation.