Two Charged in Ongoing Copper Wire Theft Investigation in Grey-Bruce
Grey Bruce OPP have charged two people in an ongoing wire‑theft investigation that caused thousands in damage and disrupted emergency services.
Two individuals have been charged in connection with a series of copper wire thefts that have disrupted telecommunications infrastructure across southwestern Ontario, including the Grey Bruce region.
According to Ontario Provincial Police, the theft of telecommunication wire—typically stripped for copper and resold—has been a recurring issue throughout 2025 in the Grey Bruce, Wellington, and Dufferin OPP detachment areas.
These incidents typically involve cutting utility poles and removing overhead wire, often resulting in $5,000 to $10,000 in damage per case and interruptions to 911 service until repairs can be completed.
The most recent investigation began on January 7, 2026, when Grey Bruce OPP received a report of a suspicious vehicle north of Wiarton. Officers who responded discovered that a nearby utility pole had been partially cut, but the suspects had already left the scene.
A member of the public provided detailed descriptions and photographs of the individuals and their vehicle.
Later that same day, police were called to Highway 6 south of Chatsworth, where a vehicle was reportedly stuck. Officers identified the occupants as the same individuals involved in the earlier incident near Wiarton. Both were arrested, charged, and released at the time.
On January 8, further investigation revealed that one of the individuals had provided police with false identification. That same day, officers located both individuals again, this time operating a stolen snowmobile. They were taken into custody for a second time.
As a result of the investigation, Grey Bruce OPP have charged Mitchel Gorman, 26, of Chatsworth, with mischief over $5,000, mischief endangering life, operation of a motor vehicle while prohibited, and failure to comply with a release order.
Saleena Smith, 35, of Milton, has been charged with mischief over $5,000, mischief endangering life, obstructing a peace officer, and personation with intent.
Both appeared for bail hearings on January 9, 2026, at the Ontario Court of Justice in Owen Sound. Gorman was remanded into custody, while Smith was released from custody and is scheduled to return to court at a later date.
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