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An alarming rise in copper wire theft and infrastructure vandalism in California is threatening public safety and connectivity across the state. At AT&T alone, we experienced more than 2,200 copper theft incidents in California in 2024 compared to 71 in 2021.
These crimes have disabled streetlights, severed phone and broadband connections and created multi-million-dollar repair costs across the state. To help address impacts to customers, who bear much of the consequences, we’re engaging government, business and community leaders to take action together.
Key Insights
- We’re offering a reward of up to $20,000 for specific and detailed information that leads to arrests and convictions related to copper cable theft or the attempted sale of stolen copper in California.
- Susan Santana, President, AT&T California, joined California Attorney General Rob Bonta for a community roundtable to engage stakeholders and explore collaborative solutions. The roundtable convened dozens of law enforcement and local government officials, and business and community leaders.
- We continue to collaborate with state and local leaders to deter theft, protect infrastructure and maintain connectivity for Californians.
The public is encouraged to report suspicious activity, such as unmarked (non-AT&T) vehicles or individuals cutting and removing cables. Tips can be reported to local law enforcement or AT&T Global Security at (800) 807‐4205. AT&T’s reward offer is valid for leads received through February 1, 2026.