Radical plan to send in army of armed guards to fight out-of-control LA copper wire theft
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power is proposing to create its own armed police force to address the ongoing issue of copper wire theft. This initiative aims to enhance security for critical infrastructure, as current security measures are deemed insufficient. The plan requires voter support and state legislative approval, with an estimated cost of $9.7 million over three years.
- ▪The LA Department of Water and Power wants to establish an armed police force to combat copper wire theft.
- ▪Copper wire theft has cost the city over $20 million annually, affecting streetlights and public safety.
- ▪The proposal would add 20 to 50 officers with the authority to carry firearms and make arrests.
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Metro Radical plan to send in army of armed guards to fight out-of-control LA copper wire theft By Titus Wu Published May 29, 2026, 2:25 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The California Post on Google The Los Angeles agency in charge of the city’s electricity wants to create its own armed police force to combat the the epidemic of thieves stealing valuable copper wire from streetlights. The LA Department of Water and Power made the request in a letter sent to the City Council, pointing out that the Port of Los Angeles and Los Angeles airports have their own police authorities.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at California Post.
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