Enough is Enough: Las Vegas Leaders Demand Tougher Penalties for Copper Thieves After Strip Blackout

TheNevadaGlobeStaff

6 hours ago

Categories: 702Times

Enough is Enough: Las Vegas Leaders Demand Tougher Penalties for Copper Thieves After Strip Blackout

When criminals disrupt critical infrastructure, it’s not just a theft—it’s an attack on public safety. In the wake of a massive power outage that darkened the Las Vegas Strip, impacted Harry Reid International Airport, and even left Allegiant Stadium powerless, local leaders are sounding the alarm. Their message to Nevada lawmakers? It’s time to crack down on copper theft with the full force of the law.

Police recently announced the arrest of three suspects connected to a theft at an NV Energy substation—an act that went beyond petty crime, posing serious risks to thousands of residents and visitors alike. Commissioner Michael Naft, whose district includes Allegiant Stadium, isn’t pulling any punches. “This is a safety risk for our neighborhoods,” Naft declared. “We need the state legislature to codify the law, making it crystal clear that, just like with catalytic converters, possession of stolen copper cannot be tolerated.”

Nevada is already seeing success with laws targeting catalytic converter thefts. The 2023 legislation slashed related crimes across the Valley and statewide. Now, Naft and other advocates are pushing for similar measures to address copper theft—proposing penalties not just for stealing copper, but for possessing it without legitimate documentation.

Critics may argue about the severity of potential penalties, but one thing is clear: when thieves can cripple airports and shut down major landmarks, the status quo isn’t working. Naft helped lead the charge on a local ordinance that prohibits the sale of stolen copper to recyclers, but without state-level support, enforcement has its limits.

“Our local police departments will continue doing their part,” Naft emphasized, “but we need the Legislature to step up. There’s no good reason to be walking around with stolen copper wire. Period.”

This isn’t just about property crime—it’s about public safety, economic security, and sending a strong message that Nevada won’t tolerate attacks on its critical infrastructure.

Source: FOX5 Vegas