Damage from copper wire theft in 2025 totals in $1.4 million

The Calgary Police Service is warning the public about an increase in copper wire theft that has totalled more than $1 million this year.

It says the crime not only causes significant financial loss, but also poses a serious risk to public safety and critical infrastructure.

So far this year, there have been 40 incidents related to telecommunications infrastructure. The estimated loss in damages and repair is more than $1.4 million.

Police explain the crimes have targeted telecommunications and utility infrastructure, resulting in service disruptions and expensive restoration efforts.

“Copper wire theft is not a victimless crime; it affects entire neighbourhoods,” said Staff Sgt. Colin Chisholm with the CPS General Investigations Unit. “When copper wiring is stolen from utilities and telecommunications infrastructure, it can leave communities in the dark, without electricity, internet and emergency communications.

“We are asking Calgarians to help us prevent these dangerous thefts, which often occur in the early morning hours when it’s still dark. Legitimate repairs by service providers generally do not occur at this time of day, and we urge Calgarians to report any suspicious activity.”

In addition to safety concerns, police say the cost of repairs and replacement puts a financial burden on public resources and delays infrastructure projects. It also poses a risk to the public and the technicians fixing the damage.

Calgarians are asked to report suspicious behaviour near public infrastructure or construction zones to the CPS non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or make an anonymous tip to CrimeStoppers.

Tips that lead to an arrest could result in a reward up to $2,000.