In an effort to prevent copper thefts that have in some cases temporarily disabled 911 and business lines in communities locally and beyond, authorities representing cities, counties, law enforcement and AT&T gathered in North Richmond on Tuesday to offer public education on how to spot and report thieves.
The Richmond Police Department offered three ways to identify authorized AT&T personnel working on a utility pole or other electrical unit. The first: employees have branded vests with the AT&T logo. The second: Employees wear a visible employee ID badge on the front of their vests. The third: Employees have branded utility vehicles with the AT&T logo.
Officials urge the public to call 911 if they believe they have witnessed a theft in progress. They’re asked to provide as much detail as possible to describe the suspects.
“AT&T offers a $5,000 reward for specific and detailed information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals involved in copper cable or the attempted sale or purchase of stolen copper cable from AT&T in Contra Costa County,” the RPD stated.
For more information, call AT&T Asset Protection, 800-807‐4205.
In a statement, Contra Costa County Supervisor John Gioia said County officials “are serious about tracking down and prosecuting those who disrupt our vital activities by stealing copper wire.”
Added AT&T spokesperson Tedi Vriheas, “We need to hold all those responsible for the theft, as well as the recyclers processing payments for the stolen materials, accountable for their actions. We will continue to work with local law enforcement as they help
to curb this illegal activity.”
AT&T is currently suing Alco Recycling, which has locations in the Bay Area and Central Valley, on allegations of accepting and processing recycling payments for stolen copper cable.
