3 Wire Wiring - Switch & Outlet Options?

[JDRoberts]

The copper wire is the ground. It cannot safely be used as a neutral.

FAQ: Neutral and Ground Wires are not Interchangeable

This is very dangerous. And likely not to code. And likely a violation of your insurance policy. Please have this reviewed by a licensed electrician in your jurisdiction. The ground needs to be left as the ground. Adding it into the live circuit just creates all kinds of potential problems, including fire hazards. Remember your goal is not to get this particular switch to come on. Your goal is to get this particular switch to come on while maintaining the fire and electrical safety integrity of your whole house electrical system. @Navat604