Telecoms Cheer as Feds Finally Target Copper Theft and Network Sabotage

The federal government has introduced Bill C-14, a new proposal aimed at increasing penalties for crimes involving telecommunications infrastructure and retail theft.

The bill, tabled in the House of Commons on October 23, would allow courts to treat crimes such as copper theft, network vandalism, and organized retail theft as aggravating factors during sentencing — meaning offenders could face tougher penalties.

Telecommunications companies across Canada have reported a growing number of copper wire thefts and damage to network sites, which have at times caused service outages, including disruptions to 911 access. Police have also noted a rise in mobile phone store robberies, which pose safety risks to workers and customers.

“We are pleased the government is sending a strong signal that vandalism and other acts against critical infrastructure like telecommunications, as well as organized retail theft, are serious crimes,” said Robert Ghiz, President and CEO of the Canadian Telecommunications Association, in a statement on Thursday. The CTA represents big telecom including the likes of Rogers and Bell (Telus isn’t part of the organization).

Ghiz added that if passed, he hopes courts will apply the new rules to ensure sentences reflect the impact of these offences. The association said it will continue to work with governments and law enforcement to make sure penalties reflect the real harm caused to Canadians when vital networks are targeted.

We’ve seen endless stories of copper theft affecting Rogers, Telus and Bell. They’ve been asking for tough sentencing on bad guys when it comes to copper theft for years. Finally, Ottawa is adding consequences for those looking to steal copper and theft in general. Will the feds actually get tough on crime?