LA County Board

26. Addressing Copper Wire, Catalytic Converter, and other Non-Ferrous Metal Theft in Los Angeles County Recommendation as submitted by Supervisor Barger: Request the Sheriff and the District Attorney work in collaboration with the Director of Public Works, other relevant County Department Heads, utility companies, telecommunications providers, recycling industry representatives, local law enforcement agencies, Contract Cities, League of California Cities, and other stakeholders responsible for maintaining or securing infrastructure and report back to the Board in writing within 90 days with a coordinated plan to address copper wire, catalytic converter, and other non-ferrous metal theft across the County. The report should include: A comprehensive assessment of impacts to County operations, Departmental budgets, public infrastructure, emergency communications, and public-facing services resulting from theft. A forecast of the impact and added costs of these incidents to preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 2027 Super Bowl, and the 2028 Summer Olympic and Para Olympic Games in the County. Recommendations for cross-Departmental strategies that improve prevention, detection, and rapid response to incidents, including operational protocols, infrastructure hardening measures, resource needs, and opportunities for improved data-sharing. An evaluation of best practices from other jurisdictions, such as ordinance models, tip/reward programs, permitting systems, or recycling oversight structures, that have demonstrated effectiveness in curbing theft. A review of current State Law to identify changes that can help strengthen local capacity to deter and reduce theft. A proposal that uses existing resources for improved protection, deterrence, and investigation of non-ferrous metal and other critical infrastructure related crimes. A review of any recourse, assistance programs, and service options offered by utility companies, telecommunications providers, and other affected private entities to support communities that experience service interruptions resulting from copper wire theft. (26-1589) Motion by Supervisor Barger (Updates Following Cluster)