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Alleged copper wire thief tried to get away in go-cart

Trailer was loaded with property from Union Pacific Railroad yard

Michael Redenius

A Fort Dodge man accused of stealing copper wire is alleged to have fled the scene driving what investigators call a “go-cart.”

Michael Redenius, 34, is charged with one count of second-degree theft, a class D felony.

The alleged theft happened shortly after 12:30 a.m. Tuesday.

According to the criminal complaint, filed with the Webster County attorney’s office, a county sheriff’s deputy was on patrol in the area of 15th Avenue South and South 26th Street in Fort Dodge when he spotted a go-cart pulling a small trailer carrying two spools of copper wire.

The deputy also saw a third spool of copper wire that had apparently fallen off the trailer.

The complaint stated that the deputy tried to stop the go-cart, and after a brief chase, the driver pulled over and was arrested.

Redenius was identified as the driver in the complaint.

According to the deputy’s report, Redenius admitted to stealing the three spools from the Union Pacific Railroad yard, located at 2830 14th Ave. S.

The three spools of wire are estimated to cost about $1,000 apiece, the complaint stated.

Besides the theft charge, Redenius was charged with not having proof of insurance coverage, operating a non-registered vehicle, two counts of failing to obey a stop sign and one count of failing to yield to an emergency vehicle.

Additionally, Redenius is facing a parole violation charge.

Magistrate Steve Kersten, who presided over Redenius’ initial appearance, allowed the defendant to be released on his own recognizance on the theft and simple misdemeanor charges.

However, Kersten set bond on the parole violation at $15,000 cash-only.

Attorney A. Joseph Wilson, of Des Moines, was appointed to represent Redenius.

The theft case was transferred to Webster County District Court, where an arraignment will be scheduled for a later date.

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