Phone and internet outages tied to copper thefts in areas of Ontario

People living in rural Halton are often left without telephone and internet service when thieves cut down telecommunications lines to steal valuable copper wire.

Recent incidents, according to Halton Regional Police, say thefts, which have been occurring in Milton and Halton Hills since the beginning of 2026, have caused significant damage to telecommunications infrastructure, costly repairs and service outages for residents while crews work to restore communications.

The police investigation, dubbed Project Element, was launched by Halton Regional Police in April after a series of copper thefts involving utility poles.

Investigators say suspects typically cut down telecommunications lines to steal the copper cable inside before selling the metal for cash at scrap yards.

Copper has become a frequent target for thieves because it remains one of the most valuable recyclable metals. While scrap prices fluctuate, copper can fetch several dollars per kilogram, making it attractive to criminals despite the enormous costs left behind. Beyond the value of the metal itself, the thefts can leave residents without phone and internet service and force utility companies to spend thousands of dollars repairing damaged infrastructure.

A recent investigation took a dramatic turn on June 6 when officers responded to a fire near Eighth Line and 5 Side Road in Milton.

Police say they found a person burning the insulation off stolen copper cable — a common method used to expose the metal before it is sold to scrap dealers. The person fled the scene at a high rate of speed, evading police.

The same suspect was arrested three days later.

As a result of the investigation, Stewart Winney, 41, of Milton has been charged with:

• Mischief under $5,000
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
• Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle
• Flight from a police officer
• Trafficking in property obtained by crime (two counts)
• Theft over $5,000
• Fail to comply with a release order

Winney was held in custody pending a bail hearing in Milton.

Halton police say investigators continue to work to identify additional suspects believed to be connected to the thefts.

Anyone with information about the investigation is asked to contact the HRPS 1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777, ext. 2416.