Copper Wire Theft Ring in Los Angeles: Heavy Metal Task Force Reports Major Success

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Six months after the establishment of the Heavy Metal Task Force, LA city officials have reported significant progress in combating the copper wire theft epidemic that has left many neighborhoods in darkness, including the iconic 6th Street Bridge.

At a press conference held on Tuesday, Councilman Kevin de León announced that the task force's efforts have resulted in 82 arrests and the seizure of nearly 2,000 pounds of stolen copper wire. Of those arrested, 60 individuals are facing felony charges.

"The theft of these materials poses an immediate threat to public safety and has a profound impact on the communication infrastructure," said LAPD Department Chief Michael Oreb. He highlighted that out of the 2,000 pounds of wires seized, 800 pounds were telecom cables stolen from AT&T.

The city's leaders, including Council members de León and Traci Park, are advocating for a new measure to imprint a city logo on wiring to help easily identify its origins.

"The impact of copper wire theft extends beyond just the loss of material. When internet access and phone service are disrupted, people are put at risk," de León added. His comments were underscored by the tragic story of local resident Margarita Amador, who shared that a person she knew died last month after being struck by a car while crossing a dark street due to non-functioning streetlights caused by wire theft.

In response to the ongoing threat, de León and Park announced two new motions aimed at further strengthening the fight against copper wire theft. Additionally, de León pledged an additional $200,000 in discretionary funds to ensure the continued operation of the Heavy Metal Task Force.

Copper wire thefts have seen a drastic increase in recent years, with thieves stripping the valuable metal to sell at recycling centers. The task force's crackdown marks a significant step in curbing this dangerous trend and restoring safety and infrastructure reliability to affected communities.