Abstract
This chapter provides a primer on metals by identifying the differences between precious metals, ferrous metals, and non-ferrous metals (e.g., copper). It examines the historical circumstances that resulted in the dramatic rise in copper value coupled with the worldwide economic depression, which made recycling metal lucrative and thus spurred the increase in metal theft. The prevalence or rate of metal theft is examined through insurance claims data and data garnered by two cities that track instances of metal theft. These resources are currently the only known empirical study of metal theft rates in the United States. Finally, the chapter examines the direct and indirect costs and harms associated with metal theft on individuals, groups, and governments, finding significant costs beyond the loss of the metal.
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