Local Mounties looking to crack down on rise in copper wire thefts

The Prince George RCMP has noted a rise in copper wire theft in the area, with its effects widespread.

According to police, thieves have targeted numerous copper power cable and copper communications cables, which has caused disruptions to critical infrastructure and 9-1-1 emergency services for the public.

Earlier this month, TELUS noted they were victimized by four copper wire thefts in Prince George in just over a week after speaking with MyPGNow.com.

“Copper wire theft affects everyone when it happens, with repairs costing businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars. What we are asking the public to do is ‘say something if you see something’. If you notice someone in your neighbourhood that is not clearly identifiable as a utilities worker who is near a lamp post, power pole or telecommunications station – anywhere that copper wire can be – call the non-emergency line and report it,” stated Corporal Jennifer Cooper.

Getting a good description of what the suspect looks like, what vehicle they are using (if they are using one) and what their last known direction of travel was if they leave the area are all valuable pieces of information to make note of for police officers, as well as passing along any relevant cell phone video, dash camera footage or video surveillance.

Police will be working closely with the City Bylaw Services staff to enforce the Regional Automated Property Information Database (RAPID) program, which electronically records the information of those persons turning in second-hand property, such as copper wire.

“We will be ramping up our monitoring of this program to try and better identify those persons responsible for pawing or selling stolen goods,” said bylaw services manager,” Kent MacNeill.

“The City of Prince George bylaw services division is committed to working with the RCMP to enforce business licences, should police find a dealer operating in contravention of the Metal Recyclers Act or without a proper business licence. We would like to prevent further damage and are concerned that the thieves’ actions can negatively impact vital services. If you have any information about this or any other cable thefts, please contact the Prince George RCMP at (250)561-3300 or anonymously contact Crime Stoppers at 1(800)222-8477.”