PHOENIX (AZFamily) — A growing wave of air-conditioning and copper theft is hitting small businesses in west Phoenix, and one property owner says the crime is taking a substantial financial toll.
Fares Alzibidi, who owns a multi-business complex near 35th Avenue and Thomas, says thieves stripped five rooftop air-conditioning units over the summer. The building is home to several small businesses and Think Through Academy, a local charter school.
“You know, all the guts, the carbon and stuff was taken out of it,” Alzibidi said, describing the stolen units…