I think the best solution to copper theft is to simply keep it energized. That's worked fairly well with copper thefts around major infastructure... the ultimate Darwin award.
Granted some have miracoulously gotten away, but that seems to be pretty rare.
We get into unrelated side issues of legal liability, a child being injured, and all of that, but the point is electrification is the utimate deterrent - and punishment all in one! Warning tape and danger signs should be sufficient - ignore them at your own peril.
If you think I'm wrong about this, shut a sub-station down, remove all the "danger" and "high volatage signs" and put up a sign that says "closed for maintenance". Watch how fast the place is cleared out.
Joe
