COPPER WIRE THEFTS - JOINT RELEASE

COPPER WIRE THEFTS
Increased thefts noted in the downtown core 

LONDON, ON (March 24, 2025) – The London Police Service (LPS) has received reports from London Hydro regarding an increase in copper wire thefts since November 2024. In total, LPS received 23 reported incidents, with 21 occurring in the downtown core.  These thefts are not only criminal in nature, but they pose significant public safety risks.

What to Look For:

Be vigilant and keep an eye out for suspicious activity in your neighborhood. Here are some signs that may indicate copper wire theft:

• Unauthorized individuals tampering with electrical equipment or entering restricted areas at odd hours (overnight, early morning, etc.)
• Unmarked vehicles parked in unusual spots, especially near electrical installations.
• Persons with tools or equipment including wire cutters, crowbars, battery tools and knives.
• Missing, moved, or damaged covers on electrical boxes or transformers.

How to Report:

If you witness any suspicious activity or find evidence of theft, we ask community members to report it immediately. Here’s how you can help:

• Call the London Police Service at our non-emergency number: 519-661-5670.
• For immediate threats to safety, dial 9-1-1.
• Provide detailed descriptions of individuals, vehicles, and any other pertinent information.
• You can also report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

The Dangers:

Copper wire theft is not a victimless crime. It poses severe risks to public safety, including:

• Electrical Hazards: Exposed wires can lead to electric shocks, fires, or even death, while endangering pedestrians and nearby residents.
• Service Disruptions: Theft can cause power outages, impacting homes and businesses.
• Increased Costs: Repairing and replacing stolen wires is expensive and these costs can affect public services.

“These criminal activities pose significant risks, not only to those committing the crimes, but also to our London communities,” said Detective Inspector Sean Travis, head of the Investigative Services Branch of the London Police Service. “We ask all Londoners to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities relating to these copper thefts. Together, we can work to prevent crime and ensure a safer city for everyone.”

"Ensuring safe and reliable hydro services is our top priority”, says Ysni Semsedini, Chief Executive Officer of London Hydro. “Theft not only increases costs but more importantly, poses significant safety risks. We are dedicated to collaborating with London Police Services to prevent these activities and raise awareness."

“Salvage yards are regulated and licensed by the city under the Business Licensing By-law. Recent enhanced regulations require several pieces of identification when selling items or materials at a salvage yard. Additionally, salvage yards are required to report daily to the London Police Service when products such as copper are received,” said Orest Katolyk, Director of Municipal Compliance. “These regulations are in place to deter the sale and disposal of allegedly stolen items at salvage yards.”

Municipal Law Enforcement Officers recently completed an educational blitz at salvage yards, sharing information on licensing regulations.

For more updates and safety tips, follow the London Police Service on our social media channels.

Anyone with information in relation to these types of incidents is asked to call the London Police Service at (519) 661-5670 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477. Information can also be sent in online anonymously to London Middlesex Crime Stoppers.

For media inquiries, contact:

Sgt. Sandasha Bough
Media Relations Officer – London Police Service                     
C. 519-854-8576
Email. Media Officer          

Matt Quin
Director of Public Relations, Corporate Communications & Marketing – London Hydro
C: 226-984-7273
Email: quinm@londonhydro.com

Andrea Rosebrugh
Manager, Media Relations – City of London
C: 519-619-4603
Email: media@london.ca