A law enforcement operation targeting copper wire theft resulted in two arrests and the seizure of approximately four tons of copper in downtown Los Angeles, California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced Friday.
According to the California Department of Justice, authorities seized an estimated 3,000 feet of stolen telecommunications wire worth around $102,000. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) coordinated the operation.
“Copper theft has a steep price, and we are ensuring that the criminals behind it are the ones who pay it, not our communities,” Bonta added. “We will not tolerate bad actors who steal resources that plunge California neighborhoods into darkness or cut off vital emergency services.”
The charges come amid increased concerns over copper wire theft in California. Such crimes have resulted in widespread power and telecommunications disruptions, impacted commercial and agricultural operations, and created severe public safety concerns.
Authorities have warned that copper wire theft can disrupt 911 emergency communications, law enforcement operations, public transportation, and traffic signals, as well as critical hospital and school services.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna underlined that the implications go far beyond the monetary value of stolen goods.
“Copper wire theft isn’t just a property crime. It is a significant public safety issue that can interrupt important services, harm critical infrastructure, and endanger our people,” Luna stated.
Luna thanked law enforcement agencies’ collaboration with the operation’s success and underlined their commitment to avoiding future thefts and securing key infrastructure.
Bonta stated that his agency is continuing to collaborate with law enforcement agencies, industry leaders, and government officials to combat the growing issue and bolster infrastructure safeguards in California.
Authorities asked residents to immediately report any suspicious behavior or suspected copper wire theft to local law enforcement. Early reporting, officials say, might help avoid severe communications interruptions and millions of dollars in possible harm.
Officials did not reveal the identity of the two suspects or the accusations they may face.
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