Fort Worth is grappling with a dramatic surge in copper wire theft, causing widespread internet and phone service outages that impact residents, businesses, and emergency response capabilities. Law enforcement reports show that the primary target is telecommunications wire owned by AT&T (NYSE: T), but other providers like Charter Spectrum have also been affected, reported WFAA-TV.
Key statistics for the Fort Worth region:
- 545 percent increase in AT&T cable thefts in the past two years.
- 53 percent overall rise in metal theft cases citywide.
- 142 reported AT&T cable thefts between October 2022 and October 2024 (compared to just 22 cases from 2020-2022).
- Summer 2024 peak: More than 25 thefts in a single month.
East Fort Worth has been identified as a hotspot for these crimes, reported WFAA-TV. Industry analysts cite a lack of regulation at scrap yards and recycling centers failing to check sources as contributing factors in not curbing the rise in thefts. The Fort Worth Police Department’s Metal Theft Unit has established a dedicated work group to crack down on metal theft and protect critical infrastructure.
Fort Worth law enforcement has said they plan on responding with increased patrols and surveillance near telecom infrastructure while calling for tougher state laws on metal theft, including mandatory ID checks at scrapyards. AT&T and other providers have been encouraged by authorities to install theft-resistant enclosures or real-time tracking technology to prevent losses.
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