Introduction to Telecom Cable Vandalism
Houston police arrested three people accused of damaging hundreds of telecom cables in a northeast side neighborhood. The trio was hoping to steal copper wire, but mistakenly cut fiber optic cables. This incident highlights the growing problem of telecom vandalism and theft, which can have significant impacts on the economy, public safety, and critical communications infrastructure.
The Incident Unfolds
Investigators said the group started cutting cables off Fulton near Fichter after midnight on Monday. The sound of a saw and interrupted internet access alerted residents, who called police. One resident, Jacob Benavides, described the scene as "like watching an episode of cops in my front yard." He saw a guy with a ladder trying to cut the lines and shouted at him, causing the individual to take off running.
The Thieves Return
When police initially arrived, the group was gone. However, Benavides said the group was only spooked temporarily and returned a little over an hour later to try to haul away the downed cable lines. The group tried to use a tow strap to haul off the cables, but it snapped. Neighbors again dialed 911, and this time officers arrived while the would-be thieves were still in the area.
The Arrest and Charges
When officers found the group’s SUV, they found half of a tow strap tied to the bumper, which matched the other half of the strap still tied around the downed cables. The police were able to apprehend the trio, and they were charged with first-degree felony criminal mischief. Court records show Jerrell Hatchet, 37, Manuel Rodriguez, 58, and Sabrina Perez, 33, caused $300,000 in damage. Harris County records show all three have a prior criminal history and remain in jail.
The Consequences of Telecom Vandalism
A detective with Houston police’s metal-theft unit, Kyle Brauner, said what the group was trying to steal was worthless to them because fiber optic cable lines contain no precious metals. Brauner said a lot of thieves don’t know what they’re cutting and often sever fiber lines in their search for copper wire. This highlights the need for education and awareness about the consequences of telecom vandalism.
Efforts to Combat Telecom Vandalism
HPD spearheads a task force targeting telecom theft and vandalism. The task force is comprised of area law enforcement and telecom companies like Comcast and AT&T. Additionally, AT&T, as well as other telecom companies, support recent efforts to strengthen state laws that increase penalties and ban the possession of telecom-related copper wire. Two bills were filed in Austin this legislative session to address this crime.
Conclusion
The incident in Houston highlights the growing problem of telecom vandalism and theft. It is essential to educate the public about the consequences of these actions and to support efforts to combat them. By working together, we can prevent such incidents and protect our critical communications infrastructure. The arrest of the three individuals and the charges they face serve as a reminder that telecom vandalism will not be tolerated, and those responsible will be held accountable.
