Birmingham, AL, July 23, 2025
News Summary
Central Alabama Water is probing a second case of employee theft within two months, involving heavy tools allegedly taken by a former employee. The incident, reported to the Birmingham Police, follows an earlier case of copper theft worth nearly $2 million. In response, CAW is enhancing inventory controls and has initiated a forensic audit to ensure accountability and restore public trust.
Birmingham Investigates Second Case of Employee Theft in Two Months
Central Alabama Water (CAW), also known as the Birmingham Water Works Board, is currently investigating a second case of potential employee theft within a two-month period. This recent incident involves a former employee from the utility’s distribution department. The CAW General Manager confirmed that the matter has been reported to the Birmingham Police Department as part of an ongoing investigation.
CAW is emphasizing its commitment to the principles of honesty, integrity, and accountability, expecting all employees, consultants, and contractors to adhere to these values. The organization has made it clear that any violations of these principles will lead to accountability measures for those involved. As a result of these cases, CAW has started taking steps to enhance its inventory control processes.
Details of the Current Investigation
The theft being investigated is centered around heavy tools that have allegedly been taken to a pawn shop. Some of these stolen items have reportedly been recovered. The focus of this investigation follows a significant incident reported in June, where Birmingham Police were called to look into the theft of copper and related materials taken by utility employees.
In the June incident, internal investigations revealed that a group of employees colluded to bypass security protocols, with the intention of reselling the copper for profit. The estimated value of the stolen copper from this case is close to $2 million, and investigations are still ongoing.
Organizational Response
In response to the earlier theft discovery, the General Manager had recommended a thorough independent review of warehouse operations to bolster security measures. The current board has taken this a step further by authorizing a forensic audit with the assistance of state auditors to specifically address issues surrounding inventory control.
As investigations continue, further information about the involvement of employees, their current employment status, or any potential arrests remains undisclosed.
Background of CAW and Previous Incidents
Central Alabama Water (CAW) is responsible for water distribution across the Birmingham area. The ongoing challenges surrounding employee theft have raised questions about the integrity of internal operations. The recent cases of theft stand out against the backdrop of the organization’s commitment to high ethical standards and operational transparency.
The CAW is working diligently to rectify inventory control vulnerabilities and restore public trust in its operations as it navigates these troubling incidents.
FAQ
What is the current investigation about?
The current investigation revolves around potential theft of heavy tools by a former employee from Central Alabama Water’s distribution department.
How many theft incidents have been reported recently?
There have been two reported incidents of employee theft within two months, including a significant theft of copper valued at nearly $2 million.
What measures is Central Alabama Water taking in response?
CAW is undergoing a forensic audit and has begun improving its inventory control processes to prevent future thefts.
How is the organization ensuring accountability for these incidents?
CAW is maintaining its standards of honesty, integrity, and accountability, and plans to take necessary actions against anyone found violating these principles.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Current Investigation | Second case of theft involving heavy tools reported to Birmingham Police. |
| Previous Incidents | First incident involved copper theft, valued at $2 million, carried out by utility employees. |
| Accountability Measures | CAW emphasizes honesty, integrity, and plans for accountability measures against violators. |
| Forensic Audit | Independent forensic audit authorized to improve inventory control after the incidents. |
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Additional Resources
- AL.com: Birmingham Water Utility Hit by Second Employee Theft
- WBRC: Central Alabama Water Investigating Second Case of Suspected Employee Theft
- WVTM: Birmingham Water Works Theft Involving Employees
- ABC 33/40: Birmingham Water Works Faces Overhaul Amid Allegations
- Yellowhammer News: Birmingham Water Works Employees Under Criminal Investigation
- Wikipedia: Birmingham, Alabama
- Google Search: Birmingham Water Works Theft
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Birmingham, Alabama
- Google News: Birmingham Water Works
- Google Scholar: Birmingham Water Works Theft
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
