Occurred on 12/20/11, 6:00 a.m.   Theft & Criminal Mischief   6300 McArdle     1112200044 

An AEP Supervisor reported to Officers that a transformer station had been vandalized causing a large power outage early this morning.  The supervisor told the Officer that entry had been gained when the suspect or suspects cut through a fence near an adjacent grocery store.

Approximately 110 feet of copper ground wire was stolen from several poles causing the transformer to be ungrounded, resulting in the power outage.

AEP reported the estimated cost for repairs is $250,000.00.  At this time, there is no suspect information.

Anyone having any information regarding this crime is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 888-TIPS or the Corpus Christi Police Department Property Crimes Unit.