‘Call them the copper capers.’

‘Since last fall, as commodity prices for metals have skyrocketed, local thieves learned that pilfering metal irrigation equipment from the city’s grand parkways is a quicker way to riches than collecting aluminum cans.’

‘The copper contraption that is drawing thieves is called a backflow preventer. It weighs between 20 to 30 pounds.

‘Thieves can get from $20 to $60 at scrap metal prices for the devices, said Denver police analyst Tony Brukhardt.’

Nothin’ new. Johnny Carson and Jack Webb had a similar case in 1968.