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 recovered an estimated 3,000 feet of stolen telecommunications wire valued at approximately $102,000. The operation was conducted in collaboration with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD).
“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 said in a statement. “We will not tolerate bad actors who steal resources that plunge California neighborhoods into darkness or cut off vital emergency services.”
The arrests come amid growing concerns over copper wire theft across California. Such crimes have caused widespread power and telecommunications outages, disrupted businesses and agricultural operations, and raised serious public safety concerns.
Authorities warned that copper wire theft can interfere with 911 emergency communications, law enforcement operations, public transportation and traffic signals, as well as essential services at hospitals and schools.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna emphasized that the consequences extend far beyond the financial cost of stolen materials.
“Copper wire theft is not simply a property crime. It is a serious public safety concern that can disrupt essential services, damage critical infrastructure, and place our communities at risk,” Luna said.
Luna credited coordination among law enforcement agencies for the operation’s success and reaffirmed their commitment to preventing future thefts and protecting critical infrastructure.
Bonta said his office continues to work with law enforcement agencies, business leaders and elected officials to address the growing problem and strengthen protections for California’s infrastructure.
Authorities urged residents to report suspicious activity or suspected copper wire theft to local law enforcement immediately. Early reporting, officials said, could help prevent major communications disruptions and millions of dollars in potential damage.
Officials did not release the identities of the two suspects or disclose what charges they may face.