The following is a synopsis of crimes reported from September 13, 2026 through September 19, 2026.
September 14, 2026
- Grand Theft (Copper Wire)
- 900 block of Duarte Road - Between August 24 and September 1, suspect(s) stole copper wire from several fixed light poles. No arrest made. No video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
- Grand Theft (Copper Wire)
- 1400 block of Crestfield Drive - Between September 11 and September 14, suspect(s) stole copper wire from a work shed. No arrest made. No video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
- Grand Theft (Copper Wire)
- 1400 block of Central Avenue - Between September 10 and September 16, suspect(s) stole copper wire from an underground light pole. No arrest made. No video footage available. Temple DB follow-up.
September 17, 2026
- Burglary (Vehicle)
- 1400 Block of Buena Vista - On September 17, suspect(s) shattered the victim’s vehicle window and stole miscellaneous items from inside. No arrest made. Video footage pending. Temple DB follow-up.
- Assault with a Deadly Weapon
- 700 Block of Bettyhill Avenue - On September 17, suspect retrieved a firearm and pointed it at the victim. Arrest made. Temple DB follow-up.
Who Turned off the Lights?
Copper theft continues to be a growing concern throughout Los Angeles County. During the 2025–2026 surge, rising copper prices contributed to an increase in these crimes, resulting in hundreds of thousands of dollars in replacement and repair costs. Thieves commonly target underground utility boxes, streetlight access panels, and exposed electrical wiring because of the value of copper. These thefts create public-safety hazards, increase repair costs, and can leave neighborhoods without functioning streetlights.
Residents of Duarte can play an important role in helping prevent copper theft. If you notice suspicious activityaround utility boxes, streetlights, or electrical equipment, please keep the following in mind:
- Watch for suspicious workers: Legitimate LADWP or city crews generally use marked vehicles, wear high-visibility safety equipment, and establish a clearly marked work area with traffic cones. Individuals using unmarked vehicles, working quickly at night, or operating without proper safety equipment may warrant closer attention.
- Report theft in progress: If you see someone stripping electrical wire, damaging a streetlight, or prying open an underground utility box, call 911immediately. Please maintain a safe distance and do not confront anyone.
