Peoria police working to safeguard commercial batteries

Commercial battery theft is becoming a big problem in Peoria, something police are working to rectify.

Since June 21, when about two dozen batteries were stolen from a school district bus yard, the thieves have been continuously taking batteries from commercial vehicles.

While the thieves only get about $12 per battery from Valley recyclers, they often cause thousands of dollars in expenses for the businesses.

In an effort to stem the thefts, police are urging businesses to stamp their batteries with a license plate assigned to their company so they are more easily traced. Using specialized locks is also encouraged and recyclers are urged to ask for identification when batteries are brought in.