Beekman Man Stole Copper From Utility Stations, Police Say

Correction: The Dutchess County Sheriff's Office issued a correction to its original press release. The value of the copper and the extent of the damage done was over $100,000 rather than the copper alone being valued at $100,000.

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Stephen Lippolis was a one-man wrecking crew, stealing copper and causing extensive damage in the process, according to the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office (DCSO).

The 37-year-old Beekman resident was charged with two counts of grand larceny Saturday following a four-month investigation by the DCSO.

Authorities say Lippolis broken into New York State Electric and Gas Corporation and Central Hudson Gas & Electric stations as well as a cell tower site in Dutchess County. Lippolis allegedly removed the copper from the sites and severely damaged the equipment. The copper was sold off before it could be recovered, according to the DCSO.

Lippolis was remanded to Dutchess County Jail on $50,000 cash bail or $100,000 bond. He is do to appear back in Town of Beekman Court on Wednesday.

The DCSO continues to investigate copper thefts in the area and asked anyone with information to call (845) 486-3820.

The Dutchess County Drug Task Force, the New York State Police, the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the investigation.