AT&T Offers $3K Reward After Rash of Copper Thefts

AT&T announced that the company is offering up to a $3,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for damaging AT&T’s network equipment and stealing copper cable across South Carolina, in highest concentration around Greenville and Anderson. 

The reward will be paid only if an arrest is made in the case by Nov. 15, 2013 and it results in a conviction. If two or more persons provide such information, the reward will be split equally among all such persons.

In addition to disrupting important home and business services, damaging phone lines and other equipment the public uses to place emergency telephone calls or to request emergency assistance is a  felony, punishable by jail time and fines. 

“AT&T takes this matter very seriously,” said Jim Evers, AT&T’s regional director in the Upstate. “We’re hoping the reward will motivate people to be alert and to pay close attention to any suspicious individuals who appear to be working on, or trying to cut down AT&T network cables. We are working with law enforcement to ensure those responsible are apprehended and prosecuted, and we are hopeful that this reward program will also create a higher level of awareness within our communities.”

Evers added that some of the recent copper thefts may involve suspects dressed as telecommunications workers. Residents should be aware that all official AT&T vehicles display the company logo, in contrast to the modes of transportation used by the suspected thieves. Likewise, all AT&T employees possess company issued photo identification. 

AT&T urges anyone with information regarding these crimes to call 1-800-807-4205, to begin the investigation process and possibly claim the reward. Citizens can also contact their local law enforcement agency to report suspicious behavior or to call in a tip.