If you lost internet service on the Saint John east side this past weekend, copper wire thieves are to blame. Bell Canada reports a staggering 235 percent increase in copper wire theft across New Brunswick compared to last year. According to a report from CTV News, New Brunswick and Ontario now account for 85 percent of the national surge in these crimes.

The Local Impact in Saint John

Saint John police are actively investigating the weekend theft that knocked out local internet access. Thieves stripped wire from several utility poles around 3:30 a.m. on Saturday. This local incident is part of a much larger problem. Bell recorded 268 incidents of theft and vandalism across its New Brunswick infrastructure in the first half of the year.

These crimes do more than drop your internet connection. They disrupt television and phone services and compromise access to 911 and other emergency systems.

Why New Brunswick Leads the Surge

Rural areas around Fredericton and Charlotte County are the primary targets for copper theft. Recently, Moncton and its surrounding rural areas also saw a spike in activity. Dana Lohnes, Bell director of field operations, notes the province is outpacing the rest of the country.

“We are growing disproportionately fast when compared to the rest of the country,” Lohnes says. He points to the rural nature of New Brunswick and current provincial recycling laws as key factors driving the trend.

Pushing for Stricter Laws

The New Brunswick government requires scrap metal buyers to keep records of who sells them material. However, Bell wants the province to go further. Lohnes suggests amending the rules so recyclers only buy telecommunications wire directly from authorized representatives. He explains that telecommunications wire is highly identifiable and unique to their industry, which makes it harder for thieves to sell if regulations tighten.

Federal lawmakers recently passed Bill C14, which introduces tougher penalties for damaging critical infrastructure. Police are also stepping up enforcement. The New Brunswick RCMP recently arrested a 38 year old man from Seeleys Cove after thieves repeatedly targeted a local telecommunications tower. Authorities urge you to report any suspicious activity around power poles, substations, and construction sites immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is copper wire theft increasing in New Brunswick?

Thieves target copper wire to sell as scrap metal. The vast rural areas of New Brunswick leave utility poles vulnerable to undetected theft.

How does copper theft affect my services?

When thieves cut telecommunications wires, it triggers immediate outages for internet, television, and phone services. This also blocks access to 911 emergency services.

What is being done to stop copper wire theft?

Police are increasing patrols and making arrests. Telecommunications companies are pushing for stricter provincial recycling laws, and new federal legislation now imposes harsher penalties for damaging critical infrastructure.

What should I do if I see suspicious activity near utility poles?

You should contact the police immediately. Report any unusual behavior around power poles, substations, or storage yards, regardless of the time of day.