Daylight copper theft leaves Kentucky FM station off-air, repair costs mount
Kindred Communications estimates $70,000 to $100,000 in damages as station operates at reduced power following targeted theft at Ashland tower site.
Paul Crisp of Catlettsburg has been arrested for severing the main transmission line of 93.7 WDGG(FM), a 100,000-watt country-formatted station licensed to Ashland, Kentucky. The incident occurred in broad daylight at the station’s tower site on Musser Lane, where the suspect allegedly disabled video surveillance before cutting the pressurised cable and dragging it to his home to scrap for copper.
Mike Kirtner, president of Kindred Communications, described the theft as well-thought-out, noting the suspect had scoped out the site prior to the act. Crisp was apprehended following a short pursuit by Boyd County Sheriff’s Office deputies and charged with second-degree fleeing or evading police, among other offences. Authorities discovered the cut transmission line in Crisp’s yard after obtaining a search warrant.
WDGG, known locally as “The Dawg,” is currently broadcasting at heavily reduced power of approximately 10 watts using a backup transmitter and auxiliary antenna. The main transmission line is of an unusual size and contains pressurised gases, making simple splicing risky due to potential gas leaks. Consequently, the station is sourcing an alternative route for the transmission line rather than attempting a direct repair.
Evan Adkins, the station’s director of engineering, is spearheading recovery efforts and coordinating with the insurance company. Kirtner estimates total repair costs between $70,000 and $100,000, with the line costing up to $160 per foot. The station aims to have a direct transmission path installed by Friday, June 5, though full power restoration will take longer. It remains unclear if the main antenna suffered electrical or physical damage.
This marks the second copper theft at the site in recent weeks, with a previous incident reported on May 23. Kirtner, who owns seven stations in the tri-state area of Kentucky, West Virginia, and Ohio, highlighted the station’s deep community ties, including events such as “9th Street Live” and the annual “Dawg Dazzle” fireworks display. He warned that criminal intent can render stations off-air anywhere, advising owners to consider keeping spare transmission line on hand despite the logistical challenges.
