Lovers Deli in Downtown Merced targeted again by copper wire thieves

MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) -- A downtown Merced business is recovering after copper wire thieves struck for the second time this year.

Lover's Deli was closed Monday, as usual, but instead of resting, the owners were repairing damage from a weekend theft. Police say the thieves climbed onto the roof early Saturday and stole copper wiring, causing about $6,000 in damage.

"They're always packed, so to see them have to close their doors for something like this is really, really sad," said Det. Megan Aponte of the Merced Police Department.

Investigators are reviewing city and business security cameras and checking local recycling centers.

"We are checking with the local recycling businesses because by law, they do have to provide identification or ask for identification to be presented before they can accept it," said Aponte.

As police investigated, those who work downtown said these kinds of crimes are a blow to the area.

"It's getting old, it's getting old," said Aron Scott with Luxe Republic Salon. "It affects us all and we're trying to make Merced better, ya know?"

"To see someone break a window, steal wiring, damage property, you know, start a fire," said Dandel Real, Merced Commercial Real Estate Broker. "That could be devastating to a business owner."

Real is a commercial real estate broker in the area. He's seen thefts almost prevent businesses from opening downtown.

"Uno Mas Taproom is coming in, but literally the day before we closed escrow, someone stole a lot of the wiring and electrical from the panel, and it almost got in the way of the deal happening," said Real.

Police say Lover's Deli was also targeted in May. The owners weren't available for an interview but said they hope to reopen on Wednesday or Thursday after working with electricians to restore power.

For news updates, follow Kate Nemarich on Facebook, X and Instagram.