Attempted copper theft from roof of Brantford church

A box full of cupper wire is seen in this undated file image.

A 30-year-old man was arrested after police say he was caught cutting copper lines on the roof of a Brantford church.

Staff spotted a stranger climbing onto the West Street building Tuesday around 12:57 p.m.

Brantford Police officers found the man hiding behind a large rooftop air conditioning unit and inside a wire-caged enclosure. They said the padlock had been cut and pried open.

According to a media release from police, the man was actively cutting copper lines connected to the air conditions system using bolt cutters, which were seized at the scene.

He was arrested without incident and charged with mischief over $5,000 and possession of break-in instruments. The man was then released on an undertaking.

Police thanked the staff member at the church who reported the suspicious activity, saying the quick call prevented further damage to the building.