HOUSTON -- Three men have been arrested and charged in connection with several copper theft cases across Houston, KPRC Local 2 reported Thursday.

Houston police said the men are suspected in burglaries at several churches, businesses and residences.

William Edward Gines, 54, was charged with felony criminal mischief in connection with a theft at a church in the 2500 block of Clay Road.

Police said an officer saw Gines riding a bike and carrying copper wire. The officer questioned Gines and confiscated the copper. Gines was released because there was not a reported burglary. A burglary was reported at St. Nicholas Church on Clay Road about an hour after Gines was stopped, officials said.

A witness positively identified Gines through a photograph lineup, officials said.

Billy Bookman, 47, has been accused in six burglaries on Houston's north side.

Police said a witness called after he spotted Bookman stealing copper wire from an air conditioner at the Greater Faith Baptist Church on West Montgomery Road on May 23.

Bookman pleaded guilty to the burglaries and was sentenced to 10 months in jail.

Michael Anthony Pounders, 43, was charged with assault after he allegedly stole copper tubing from an air conditioner and hit a man with a brick at New Hope Baptist Church on Chapman Street on Feb. 8.

Police said Bookman told them that he stole copper for a living.

Investigators said it is imperative that victims report burglaries so that they can catch the criminals.

"When we catch a guy or a lady, we need to make sure that we do the appropriate things and file the charges and put them in jail so they'll stop doing it to other churches and other people," Capt. Cesar Moore said.

Detectives said there are an average of 250 metal thefts in Houston each month, most occurring in the Heights and the third and fifth wards.

More than 100 burglaries at churches have been reported in 2007, police said.

Investigators said the thieves are normally homeless and steal copper to support a drug habit.

A new ordinance that goes into effect in September will require that anybody who sells copper to scrap yards be licensed and have their fingerprints on file.