Over $30,000 worth of copper wire was stolen from a Slatington area slate company.

State Police at Bethlehem said at least 3,000 ton was taken from Penn Big Bed Slate Co, 8450 Brown Street, Washington Township.The heist occurred sometime between the hours of 4:30 a.m. Sept. 21, to 12 p.m. Sept. 22, state police said.At that time, the burglar or burglars broke through a locked gate and entered the quarry, at which time they used a forklift to remove the copper wire, and then fled the scene.The company estimated that between 3,000 to 4,000 pounds was stolen.Efforts to reach company president Peter J. Papay Sr., in time for today's publication were unsuccessful.Anyone with information is asked to contact state police at Bethlehem at (610) 861-2026.