AT&T is taking a stand against the rising tide of copper cable theft plaguing the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. This trend of people cutting down AT&T lines to sell the copper from them has resulted in multiple blackouts of AT&T services. The telecommunications giant is offering a cash reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of individuals involved in these crimes.
The reward extends not only to those responsible for the thefts themselves but also to anyone involved in the buying or selling of stolen copper cables. This initiative underscores the seriousness of the issue and AT&T’s commitment to protecting its infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted service for its customers, according to a report from The Dallas Morning News.
“When they take out our network, unfortunately, it imperils the lives and livelihoods of our customers,” stated Michael Peterson, Assistant Vice President of External Affairs at AT&T Texas. “So we’ve been working with law enforcement to better communicate with each other, but work together to solve these problems, and that’s what this reward is all about.”
Copper cable theft has become a persistent problem in the region, causing significant disruptions to critical communication infrastructure and leaving residents without essential services like phone and internet access. These thefts not only inconvenience customers but also pose a threat to public safety, as emergency services can be impacted.
Local officials have also expressed their concerns. Dallas City Council Member Carolyn King Arnold highlighted the broader implications of these thefts, stating, “On a larger scale, the threat becomes to our major modes of transportation, perhaps some of our police stations.”
In addition to the reward, AT&T is working with local authorities and community leaders to address the issue. Discussions are underway to introduce legislation that would impose stricter penalties for the sale and trade of stolen copper.
AT&T urges anyone with information about these thefts to contact local law enforcement or the company’s Global Security & Investigations team at (800) 807‐4205. Tips can be submitted anonymously, and the reward offer is valid until November 1, 2025.