Crime Prevention Zoom meeting 11/27/24 recap
Artrese Morrison
- Copper wire theft impacts businesses, residents, and public safety by disrupting phone/internet service and 911 communications. It's an organized criminal enterprise, not just individual theft.
- The police department collaborates closely with AT&T, using technology like GPS trackers and security cameras to try to combat the thefts. However, staffing challenges limit their ability to do more proactive enforcement.
- New state laws like AB 2020 and SB 1037 aim to regulate scrap metal dealers, but enforcement is key. Increased fines and limits on cash transactions are other strategies used in other jurisdictions.
- For citizens, the key actions are: 1) Report any suspicious activity or missing wires immediately. 2) Secure packages and valuables, especially during the holiday season. 3) Get involved in neighborhood watch programs.
They emphasized the need for a multi-pronged, collaborative approach between law enforcement, businesses, and the community to address this persistent and impactful crime.
Questions posed during the meeting :
Question: Missing wires on light poles - is that important for residents to report?
Answer: Yes, absolutely. If you see missing wires or wires hanging down, call the non-emergency line or AT&T directly. They are required to respond and repair the damage.
Question: How can businesses and residents help protect against copper wire theft?
Answer: Recommendations include:
- Install security cameras, motion lights, alarms to make the area less inviting for criminals
- Trim back bushes/trees to improve visibility
- Call in any suspicious activity right away
Question: Are Flock cameras helpful for investigating these crimes?
Answer: Yes, the Flock camera system has been a "game changer" for the police department, allowing them to identify vehicles and suspects involved in copper wire thefts.
Question: What other state laws or regulations could help address this issue?
Answer: The new laws requiring scrap metal dealers to verify seller IDs and prohibit sales of certain stolen metals are a good start. But enforcement through inspections and significant fines is key to making these laws effective.
