Rising Copper Thefts Prompt CenturyLink to Collaborate with Silent Witness
An alarming increase in copper thefts has prompted CenturyLink, a major telecom provider, to join forces with Silent Witness. The company reported 80 theft incidents in 2024, and the number has already exceeded 90 this year, highlighting a troubling trend.
The main targets of these thefts are the metal units containing copper wires, which are crucial for delivering cellphone and internet services. CenturyLink operates across 16 states, including Arizona, and has been significantly affected by these crimes.
According to Phoenix police Sgt. Brian Bowers, “The suspects, they rip as many wires as they can out, they’ll melt the plastic down so that it exposes the copper wire itself and then they’ll take it to a recycling plant so that they can try to resell that copper for some kind of monetary value.”
Dan Chason, a representative from CenturyLink, revealed that the company has suffered losses exceeding $900,000 due to these thefts. Beyond financial implications, these incidents have disrupted essential services, such as when a theft left a hospital and prison in Washington without connectivity.
Silent Witness is appealing to the public for assistance in curbing these thefts. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact them at 480-WITNESS, 480-TESTEGO, or submit a tip through their website at silentwitness.org.
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