UPDATE: The Los Angeles City Council has just approved a groundbreaking Metal and Wire Theft Reward program aimed at combating the rampant theft of metals affecting public infrastructure. In a decisive 11-2 vote on Tuesday, city officials hope this initiative will deter criminals targeting essential city assets.
The ordinance, which now awaits the signature of Mayor Karen Bass, introduces substantial rewards for information leading to arrests in metal theft cases. Specifically, a reward of $5,000 will be offered for felony grand theft, while $1,000 will be available for misdemeanor theft. This program targets the theft of city plaques, statues, copper wire, and other critical items linked to locations like the Sixth Street Bridge.
This initiative comes as officials respond to escalating concerns over infrastructure crimes. Councilmember Traci Park addressed the issue, stating, “Copper wire and other metal theft isn’t pretty — it’s organized crime that darkens our streets, cuts the internet to homes and schools, and robs us of our history.” She emphasized the urgency of the program in maintaining public services and protecting taxpayer investments.
The increase in metal theft has prompted city leaders to act decisively. In 2024, following a spike in theft incidents at the Sixth Street Bridge, the Los Angeles Police Department formed the Heavy Metal Task Force to tackle these crimes head-on. Officials believe that the newly approved reward program will enhance efforts to identify and apprehend offenders.
Notably, the program is part of a broader legislative framework. In conjunction with the reward initiative, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed AB 476, which mandates stricter reporting requirements for junk dealers and recyclers. This law aims to curb illegal transactions involving metals, enhancing penalties for violators and requiring documentation of ownership for scrap metal.
In an official statement, Assemblyman Mark González, who authored the bill, remarked, “Copper theft is not a victimless crime. It’s costing cities millions, endangering residents, and overwhelming local resources.” Gonzalez’s remarks highlight the significant economic and social impact of these crimes.
Despite the overwhelming support, two council members, Eunisses Hernandez and Hugo Soto-Martinez, voted against the measure. Their concerns underscore ongoing debates about resource allocation for city maintenance, particularly regarding street lighting, which has been severely affected by theft and neglect.
As Los Angeles implements this reward program, city leaders are eager to see tangible results in reducing metal thefts and promoting public safety. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities related to metal theft, underscoring the community’s role in safeguarding public infrastructure.
The city plans to monitor the effectiveness of this initiative closely, with hopes that increased collaboration between law enforcement and community members will lead to significant reductions in crime. Immediate developments are expected as the mayor weighs in on this crucial ordinance.
Stay tuned as more updates unfold on this urgent public safety measure in Los Angeles.
