Posted: Wednesday, April 18, 2012 --- 6:00p.m.

WAUSAU, Wis. (AP) -- Wisconsin Public Service says someone is stealing copper from power poles in the Wausau area.

WAOW-TV (http://bit.ly/HIFglX) reports thieves have tampered with about two dozen lines.

Utility workers say the thefts are not only costly to fix but potentially dangerous.

The thefts are blamed on the rising prices offered for metals. Police believe whoever is stealing the copper hopes to recycle it for cash.

Wisconsin requires proof of ID when selling to recycling yards.

Copyright 2012. The Associated Press.