A recent copper theft in Laurel County disrupted internet and emergency communications across parts of central Kentucky, underscoring the real-world consequences of a growing crime.
“Our 911 lines were actually down for approximately five hours,” Estill County Emergency Management Director Ronnie Riddell told LEX18 News.
In response to increasing incidents and rising copper prices, the Kentucky General Assembly passed Senate Bill 64 during the 2025 legislative session. The law took effect in March 2025.
Sponsored by Sen. Brandon Storm, the measure strengthens penalties for individuals who tamper with, damage, steal or unlawfully possess copper wire and related materials.
Under the law, illegal tampering with or theft of copper is now classified as first-degree criminal mischief, a Class D felony punishable by up to five years in prison.
Because the damage to infrastructure and disruption to county operations from these thefts can be significant, officials are encouraged remind community members and recycling centers not to accept suspicious materials and to report potential theft immediately.
