Man Arrested for Attempting Copper Wire Theft in Bowling Green

Bowling Green, Ky., October 25, 2025

News Summary

In Bowling Green, police arrested James Bledsoe for trying to steal copper wire from under a bridge. Witnesses reported the incident as Bledsoe attempted to flee but was captured by officers. He faces multiple charges, including trespassing and theft, with damages estimated at over $1,000. Additionally, police are investigating a separate theft of tools valued over $2,800 from a vehicle, urging residents to report any information to Crime Stoppers.

Bowling Green, Ky. – Police in Bowling Green have arrested a man identified as James Bledsoe for attempting to steal copper wire from under a bridge. The incident took place on a Thursday afternoon when an officer was conducting a check on an abandoned vehicle near the junction of Highway 185 and Old Richardsville Road.

During the officer’s investigation, Bledsoe and another individual were discovered dragging a long telephone wire beneath the bridge. When instructed to stop by the officer, Bledsoe attempted to flee the scene. The officer responded by deploying a taser, which allowed them to apprehend Bledsoe. Upon being captured, Bledsoe confessed to law enforcement that his intention was to strip the wire for its copper content.

An AT&T employee later assessed the damage caused by the theft, estimating repair costs to exceed $1,000. Bledsoe is now facing multiple charges, including:
– Trespassing on key infrastructure
– Criminal mischief
– Possessing burglary tools
– Fleeing from police
– Theft

In a separate incident, Bowling Green police are investigating a theft of tools valued at over $2,800 from a vehicle. This theft occurred early on October 5 around 1 a.m. Surveillance footage shows a man entering a vehicle in a residential complex located on the 1700 block of Cave Mill Road and stealing various tools.

Law enforcement encourages anyone with information regarding the tool theft or the suspect’s identity to reach out to South Central Kentucky Crime Stoppers at 270-781-CLUE or 866-842-CLUE. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the P3 Tips app. Crime Stoppers has stated that their phone lines are not recorded, and caller ID is not utilized. Individuals who provide information may qualify for rewards of up to $1,000 for any anonymous tips leading to an arrest.

### Background Context

The attempted copper wire theft under the bridge represents a serious issue, as such crimes can significantly disrupt essential services, leading to costly repairs and dangerous conditions for the public. Copper theft is a common crime in many areas, driven by the high market value of copper and other metals.

The second incident of tool theft underscores the growing concern for residential and vehicle security in Bowling Green. As communities become more aware of theft-related issues, local law enforcement is taking proactive steps to engage residents in reporting suspicious activities and helping to ensure neighborhood safety.

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Additional Resources

• WBKO: Man Arrested Stealing Copper Wire Under Bowling Green Bridge
• WBKO: Bowling Green Man Arrested for Copper Theft
• My Journal Courier: Crime Stoppers Crime of the Week – Theft
• WDRB: Crews Demolish Former Bowling Alley Near Kentucky Expo Center
• Wikipedia: Copper Theft

Author: here-intlog