LAS CRUCES – Las Cruces police are asking residents to be vigilant and report suspicious activity as copper wire thefts continue to impact neighborhoods, construction sites and public infrastructure throughout the city.
Since November 2025, the Las Cruces Police Department has received approximately 100 reports of copper wire thefts. Most incidents occur between midnight and 5 a.m. and have been reported across the city, including near Elks Drive, Holman Road and the West Mesa Industrial Park.
Investigators say thieves are targeting light poles and new residential construction sites, removing copper wiring, stripping away the protective plastic coating and cutting the wire into smaller pieces before selling it to recycling centers in Las Cruces and El Paso.
Police say scrap copper can bring about $5 per pound, but each theft can cost the City of Las Cruces up to $10,000 in replacement materials and repairs. The thefts also create public safety concerns by leaving roadways without street lighting until repairs can be completed.
Since January 2026, Las Cruces police have arrested and charged 12 individuals in connection with copper wire thefts. Typical charges include felony criminal damage to property and larceny. Despite the arrests, investigators say the thefts continue.
Residents are encouraged to immediately report suspicious activity around light poles and new construction sites. Vehicles parked near light poles during overnight hours that are not clearly marked with City of Las Cruces or El Paso Electric logos should be considered suspicious.
Anyone with information or who observes suspicious activity is asked to contact Las Cruces police at (575) 526-0795.
By: John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications, LLC – john@bravomic.com
La X 96.7- Para Las Cruces, De Las Cruces