Copper wire theft has been a growing issue in recent years in Dallas and around the nation, sparking by surging copper prices. Residents are being left without phone and internet services for days or even weeks due to thieves targeting overhead wire lines. The city council has agreed to support state law changes aimed at reducing copper thefts, while AT&T offers up to $10,000 for tips leading to arrests. Local residents share their experiences with the devastating impact of these crimes on their daily lives and public safety.
As internet and phone services go out in Dallas neighborhoods due to copper wire theft, residents are left reeling from the consequences. The thieves target overhead wire lines, leaving essential services disrupted for days or weeks. Glen Oaks resident Daniel Jackson has been affected twice, with police arriving hours later to find damaged lines. “It’s not just internet; it affects our whole day,” he said.
The issue is more than just a local problem. Copper wire theft has become a national concern, sparked by surging copper prices. The Dallas City Council recently agreed to support state law changes focused on reducing the theft of copper and other equipment from communication facilities. State lawmakers are now pushing for stiffer penalties for copper thieves, with some calling it a public safety issue.
AT&T announced in October that it would offer up to $10,000 for tips leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for stealing copper cable in the Dallas-Fort Worth Area. The reward is valid until November 1, 2025. AT&T cited copper thefts as the reason some residents were without phone and internet services for weeks.
The issue has been highlighted by multiple incidents, including a transformer explosion in Fort Worth that left several homes without power. Dallas Police Officer Michael Dennis said metal theft is a significant problem across the country, with thieves targeting wires to sell them for cash.
Copper prices have surged in recent years, reaching as high as $5.10 per pound in May. The surge has led to an increase in copper wire thefts, with AT&T reporting nearly 20 incidents per week in Texas this year alone. Experts say the market for copper is volatile, making it difficult to predict price fluctuations.
Residents are calling on lawmakers to take action to address the issue. Jack Dieckhoner, a resident of Oak Cliff, has experienced six outages attributed to wire cuts by AT&T. “It’s only a matter of time before something tragic happens unless things change,” he said.
Source: https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2024/11/29/persistent-copper-wire-thefts-have-officials-looking-for-more-strict-penalties