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.
### FAQ Section
FAQ
What was James Bledsoe arrested for?
James Bledsoe was arrested for attempting to steal copper wire from under a bridge in Bowling Green.
What charges is Bledsoe facing?
Bledsoe is facing multiple charges, including trespassing on key infrastructure, criminal mischief, possessing burglary tools, fleeing from police, and theft.
What were the estimated repair costs for the damage caused by the theft?
An AT&T worker assessed the damage and repair costs to be over $1,000.
What is the police investigating in relation to tool thefts?
Bowling Green police are investigating the theft of tools valued at over $2,800 from a vehicle.
How can individuals report information regarding the tool theft?
Individuals can report information by contacting South Central Kentucky Crime Stoppers at 270-781-CLUE or 866-842-CLUE, or by submitting tips anonymously through the P3 Tips app.
| Key Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | Attempted copper wire theft under a bridge |
| Arrested Individual | James Bledsoe |
| Charges | Trespassing, Criminal Mischief, Possession of Burglary Tools, Fleeing from Police, Theft |
| Damage Assessment | Estimated over $1,000 |
| Second Incident | Theft of tools valued over $2,800 |
| Reporting | South Central Kentucky Crime Stoppers |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
