Stepfather and stepson caught fleeing bungled copper theft
A stepfather and stepson abandoned an attempted copper theft after being confronted at a Warrenheip business on February 26.
The pair drove to a business on Old Melbourne Road and the 27-year-old stepson, Cody Howard, entered to collect loose copper pieces while his stepfather waited in the car. When a staff member arrived and confronted Howard, he claimed they were looking for water because the car had broken down.
The staff member spotted copper wire in Howard's hand. Howard dropped the copper and both men fled in the car.
Police later arrested both and Howard admitted during interview they had intended to steal the copper but took nothing. At Ballarat Magistrates' Court on October 13, Howard pleaded guilty to trespassing, attempted theft and drug possession.
Magistrate Vicky Prapas called the attempt "outrageous". Howard, who was serving a community corrections order and had spent 131 days in custody, will be sentenced on October 28.
- 27
- Howard's age
- February 26, 2026
- Attempt date
- October 13, 2026
- Court date
- 131 days
- Custody time
Why it mattersThe case shows attempted theft consequences in court and reflects broader metal theft issues affecting Australian businesses.
AustraliaA Victoria court case affecting a Ballarat area business, highlighting metal theft attempts in regional Australia.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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