Copper thefts are nothing new, but an uptick in cases has power and telecommunications companies reeling.
Why it matters: Thieves looking for the highly valuable scrap metal have dug up underground and above-ground wiring, disrupting internet, emergency and power services.
Driving the news: Dallas-based AT&T is offering a $10,000 reward for help solving thefts of its copper cable in Dallas-Fort Worth.
- A Texas law enacted last summer makes damaging copper or brass components of critical infrastructure a third-degree felony if it impairs service. The law has higher penalties for stealing the metal.
How it works: Copper is used for telecommunications and public utilities because of its durability and conductivity…