Photo: 123rf.com
An alleged thief has ended up in hospital after suffering an electric shock while trying to steal copper.
In a statement, police said they were called on Sunday night about a man who had been injured and was trapped under a vacant house on Meadowcroft Way in West Auckland's Henderson.
Senior Sergeant Damian Albert said it appeared the man had been attempting to steal copper piping, but been shocked after touching a live wire.
"Fire and Emergency NZ has attended and made the scene safe so the male could be rescued and transported to hospital immediately.
"Thankfully, he suffered moderate injuries but it could have been much worse."
Albert said it was a "lucky outcome" and although pleased the man would recover, he would be held to account.
Police said the 42-year-old would be charged with burglary and need to appear in court.
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