Crime & Safety

Rise Of Copper Thefts In Richmond Affecting Businesses, Emergency Services

On Aug. 20, a man was found dead in an underground vault, suspected of being electrocuted while trying to steal copper wires.

(CBS Bay Area)

September 4, 2024

A rash of copper thefts in one west Contra Costa County community is spurring leaders to act, promising to crack down on not only those stealing the copper wires but the scrap metal dealers who are buying the ill-gotten goods.

Find out what's happening in El Cerritofor free with the latest updates from Patch.

According to the Richmond Police Chief, Bisa French, there were 20 reported copper thefts last year compared to more than 200 this year.

It's caused power and communication outages – leading businesses to lose their phone and internet service on a somewhat regular basis.

Find out what's happening in El Cerritofor free with the latest updates from Patch.

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