FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Prince George, BC – The City of Prince George is urging residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity around streetlights, as wire theft has surged in recent months, costing taxpayers thousands of dollars and impacting public safety.
Over the past six months, there has been a significant increase in copper wire theft throughout the city, with an estimated $25,000 in repair costs since October. Thieves primarily target streetlights by accessing wires through handholes, cutting them, and pulling out underground wiring. These thefts not only disrupt essential lighting infrastructure but also require extensive repairs that divert valuable time and resources from maintenance crews.
These crimes typically occur at night in areas with minimal vehicle traffic, such as residential neighborhoods and locations with easy escape routes. The City is asking the public to stay alert and immediately report any suspicious activity near streetlights to the RCMP.
If you see individuals who do not appear to be City crews working on streetlights—especially at night—please report it to the Prince George RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250-561-3300. If a crime is in progress, call 911. If safe to do so, police ask that you obtain a description of the people you are reporting. This would include things such as an approximate height and weight and a clothing description or if there is a vehicle they appear to be using.
The City appreciates the community’s cooperation in helping to prevent further thefts.
-30 -
Media contact:
Claire Thwaites, senior communications advisor
Mobile: 778-349-1386
Email: media@princegeorge.ca