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SULLIVAN COUNTY, N.Y. -- Sullivan County Sheriff’s deputies responded to three home burglaries, all involving stolen copper.

Authorities say the price of copper is up, which means copper thefts are also on the rise. The metal piping can be found in most homes and businesses and it is a hot item for thieves because unlike jewelry, it can’t be traced after it's stolen.

Officials say thieves steal the piping and sell it at salvage yards for more than $3 per pound.

“It’s becoming a valuable commodity and a lot of these people for different reasons: Drugs, other needs, are looking for quick cash. You take it to the salvage yard and they give you cash by the pound,” said Sullivan County Sheriff Michael Schiff.

They also say thieves typically target unoccupied homes, but have been known to strike elsewhere.