Northeast Dallas residents fed up with internet disruptions, suspect copper thieves

Residents in a northeast Dallas neighborhood off Skillman Street are growing increasingly frustrated with frequent internet disruptions, which they believe are caused by thieves stealing copper wiring.

According to NBC 5, disruptions have occurred multiple times over the past several weeks, prompting concerns among residents like Mitchell Mills. Mills recently woke up to the sound of sawing in the middle of the night, realizing someone was attempting to steal copper from the wiring near his backyard.

“Every single time it happens, we’re out a day or two days. And most recently, it was on Wednesday, and they came out Sunday morning and did it again,” Mills expressed.

While Mills reported the incidents to the police and obtained a case number, he remains concerned that not enough action is being taken to address the problem.

In response to inquiries, AT&T stated late Tuesday evening that they are working diligently to restore home phone and internet service to affected customers in Northeast Dallas after repeated copper thefts have impacted their network. They also mentioned their intention to coordinate with local law enforcement to identify those responsible.

This issue isn’t unique to northeast Dallas. Two months ago, approximately 300 households in Oak Cliff experienced a similar disruption after copper thieves accessed utility lines. Dallas City Councilwoman Carolyn King Arnold commented on the situation, noting that thieves often employ creative methods, such as using bucket trucks or ladders.

Recent incidents in the area include the arrest of two men identified as “known copper thieves” by Dallas Police and an act of vandalism or attempted theft involving cut fiber in Oak Cliff.

Frustrated by the recurrent disruptions, residents in northeast Dallas are calling for action. Dina Krzovic, a resident in the area, expressed her frustration, stating, “The fact that it’s happened five times in the last six weeks, and it’s the same outcome every single time, is beyond frustrating.”

NBC 5 also reached out to Dallas police for additional information. Additionally, AT&T advised the public to report any suspicious activity involving unmarked vehicles or individuals cutting and removing cable to local police or AT&T Asset Protection at 800-807-4205.