We applaud California for taking this brave step to combat the surging epidemic of copper wire theft. This increase comes at a time when copper prices are surging. In 2025, the state followed up by adopting new standards that would tackle the under-the-table operation. This decision brought them in line with 12 other states who have enacted similar measures. The legislation requires that recyclers be held liable for purchasing stolen copper. This move addresses the harsh circumstances surrounding the shocking surge of theft occurrences, prioritized dramatically in the city of Los Angeles.
The Impact of Copper Theft
The financial ramifications of copper theft are mind boggling. According to att theft cost AT&T $60 million impact on its bottom line just last year. Copper thieves stole more than 38,000 feet—nearly seven miles—of copper wire from the restored and celebrated Sixth Street Bridge. This outrage amounted to $2.5 million in damages.
AT&T’s California state president, Susan Santana, emphasized the broader implications of copper theft:
“Remember, it’s not just the $60 million impact to our bottom line. Think about the 911 calls that are not being made or the hospitals that can’t use their equipment because the internet is down.”
The consequences extend beyond financial losses. From June 2024 to June 2025, thieves removed copper wire, leaving over 15,000 disruptive assaults. These attacks crippled domestic communication networks throughout the country. This has led to catastrophic failures of service in the form of failing roads and bridges, and even some impeding emergency response, especially with recent federal investments.
State Legislation Aims to Deter Thieves
California recently passed legislation to address the growing menace of copper wire theft. This law’s intent is to personally punish those who assist in selling copper that was stolen. By passing laws that can hold recyclers accountable, lawmakers aim to lessen the incentive for thieves to participate in this criminal enterprise. Currently, an undercover detective with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department noted that there are multiple incidents of theft each day in their jurisdiction.
“We have multiple incidents just in our areas each day. It adds up,” he said. “For now, it’s kind of the Wild West.”
Even with these significant legislative wins, the future looks grim. Utility companies, including the city of Los Angeles, spend millions each year to repair damage caused by copper wire theft. And recently, the Bureau of Street Lighting in Los Angeles shared an equally alarming increase in outages. Between 2017 and 2022, theft and vandalism-related incidents exploded by ten times.
Nationwide Effects and Public Safety Concerns
As you know, the shocking rise of copper wire theft creates both serious economic and public safety risks. The increased damage and disruptions to life from these crimes have even led to critical infrastructure malfunctions, triggering disasters. More than 9.5 million customers in the U.S. experienced outages as a result of this theft and vandalism, causing widespread disruption. California and Texas accounted for over 50 percent of these incidents.
A spokesperson for Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass highlighted the urgency of addressing this issue, describing copper wire theft as “not just a nuisance, but a threat to public safety.” The effects of these thefts reverberate throughout communities, forcing cuts in public safety and daily life conveniences for millions of residents.
As California takes proactive measures to combat copper wire theft amid rising prices, it faces a formidable challenge in curbing this pervasive crime. Law enforcement, utility companies, and lawmakers need to engage one another to ensure the effectiveness of public safety. Their joint work is critical to the continued operation of our most basic services.