Copper theft is surging at an “alarming rate” across Eastern Canada, with Ontario emerging as the epicenter of a growing crime wave that’s threatening public safety and critical infrastructure, according to Bell Canada.
In one recent case, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) charged four men for allegedly cutting down 33 hydro poles in Coleman Township—about 200 km from Sudbury—to strip copper wiring. It’s part of a disturbing trend that has escalated across the province.
Since 2022, Bell has recorded over 2,270 copper theft incidents nationwide, with more than 500 in 2025 alone—a 23% increase year-over-year. Ontario accounts for 63% of these thefts, with hotspots in Hamilton, Cambridge, and Windsor.
From Construction Sites to Power Lines
Historically, thieves targeted abandoned homes or construction sites, but now they are taking down live telecom and hydro lines. In many cases, wires are cut and collected later, sometimes after break-ins at hydro stations.
Const. Joe Brisebois of the OPP says rising global copper prices—projected to hit $12,000 per tonne this year—are fueling the thefts. “It’s a serious public safety risk,” he warned.
Safety at Risk, Communication Disrupted
Bell’s Chief Technology Officer Mark McDonald stressed the broader impact: “This isn’t just theft—it disrupts emergency services and can leave communities unable to call 911.”
In 2023, copper theft near Perth, Ontario, left residents without landline access, highlighting the stakes for rural and vulnerable populations.
Hydro One echoed those concerns. “These thefts put thieves, our workers, and the public at risk,” said spokesperson Tiziana Baccega Rosa. “This infrastructure should only be accessed by trained professionals.”
Hotspots Beyond Ontario
Quebec ranks second with 12% of thefts, especially in the Saguenay region. But New Brunswick is now a national hotspot, with over 80 incidents in 2025 alone—mostly clustered around the Fredericton–Oromocto corridor.
What’s Being Done
Bell has ramped up security, installing alarms, deploying guards and cameras, and pushing for tougher laws. The company is also calling on Parliament and the Senate to revisit infrastructure protection legislation and amend the Criminal Code.
Hydro One has been using copper-steel composites for groundings, which have no scrap value, and warns would-be thieves with visible signage at their stations.
Will Tariffs or Theft Impact Consumers?
With U.S. President Donald Trump threatening 50% tariffs on copper imports by August 1, the long-term impact on prices and theft patterns remains unclear. Bell says it’s monitoring the situation closely but does not currently plan to raise service fees due to theft-related costs.
Public Urged to Stay Vigilant
Bell and Hydro One are urging the public to report suspicious activity around utility infrastructure—especially unmarked vehicles, tampering with poles, or the sound of metal cutting.
To report anonymously, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.