The theft of copper wiring at JP Smith Lumber Company in Menlo has caused several workers to be out of work yesterday and today.  AM 1180 Chattooga Radio News spoke with the Sheriff’s Department today regarding the theft.  Sheriff Kellett stated that while there was not a large amount of wiring stolen it was wiring that operated the controls to some of the machinery at the lumber mill.

Electricians have been called in to repair the wiring.  Around 65 people are employed at the lumber company located off Highway 48 in Menlo.  Sheriff Kellett told AM 1180 Chattooga Radio News that it was "awful that a petty theft like this would put people out of work in a time when the cost of living is on the rise."  Workers at the lumber company may be out of work longer depending on when the repairs are completed.