FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug. 12, 2002

CONTACT: LaVerne Kyriss, 720-962-7050, kyriss@wapa.gov

LAKEWOOD, Colo.--A high-voltage power line running between Brookings and Watertown, S.D., appears to be a favorite target for gunshot vandalism near Brookings. A line crew from Western Area Power Administration made 14 separate repairs to the three conductors in June.

"All damage was from gunshots that hit one or more of the power lines," explained Western Realty Specialist Jim Uthe. A recent inspection of the line segment shows three new areas of gunshot damage. The power line runs above the Beacon Hill Rifle and Pistol Club and Western officials have already sought the assistance of club owners and members to identify those committing vandalism on this transmission line.

Gunshot damage to transmission lines can create life-threatening hazards if the action downs a conductor or denies power to someone on life-support equipment. "We need the help of the community to identify people taking pot shots at our transmission line," said Western Security Officer Pam Moody. "If you see someone shooting at a powerline, call local law enforcement officials or call Western's Crime Watch hotline. You may even be eligible for a reward."

Western's Crime Watch Program asks the public to help fight crime at its facilities in hopes of reducing operations and maintenance costs. Help us keep
the lights on by reporting crimes. For more information, visit www.wapa.gov/crime.

Western offers cash rewards up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of individuals causing damage to its facilities and property or loss of property and personnel. Witness identities are kept confidential.

Witnesses can call toll free 1-800-209-8962 to report suspicious or criminal activities in strict confidence.

Incidents of theft, malicious mischief, destruction of government property and sabotage have increased in the utility industry. Historically, crimes against Western's facilities, equipment, real estate, employees, property and assets have cost the agency up to half a million dollars a year. This includes such crimes as theft of equipment and supplies, burglary, illegal dumping and vandalism.

Western annually markets and transmits more than 10,000 megawatts of power from hydroelectric power plants owned and operated by the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 15 central and western states.