A jump in thefts of copper and other costly metals in Saint Joseph may lead to a change in city ordinances. Police Chief Chris Connally says officers are working on revisions that would require more businesses to do what pawnshops do: check an ID and enter product information into an online program. Officers frequently use such data to find items stolen in Saint Joseph and sold in other cities.

Connally says revisions might also increase the time gold and other metals must be held before being melted down…seven days instead of the current 24 hours. Connally hopes to present something to the City Council for consideration soon.