Cleveland is the top-ranking city nationally for metals thefts, with copper the most at risk, according to an analysis of the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) Strategic and Tactical Information Department.

Of the top 10 cities where metals were stolen, six are in the Midwest, two in the Southeast and two in Texas.

In addition to determining the number of metals-related thefts, the purpose of the analysis of data from January 2006 through November 2008 was to discern if any trends could be made apparent.

"Frequently, the damage caused by such thefts is...