Copper thieves disrupt Optimum phone and internet service

A massive service outage affected 18,000 customers in Kanawha County, West Virginia, this past weekend. The disruption to internet and phone services was not caused by weather or standard equipment failure, but by criminal activity at a network facility in St. Albans.

Copper thieves targeted the infrastructure late Friday evening. The damage was significant enough to knock out phone lines, including the ability for residents to dial 911 for emergency services. This incident highlights the critical nature of utility infrastructure and the real-world dangers posed by those who vandalize it for scrap metal.

Optimum teams were on-site immediately after the damage was discovered. They worked through the night, and full service was restored by 12:30 a.m. Saturday. The company has filed a formal report with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, which is now leading the investigation into the incident.

In response to the crime, officials are urging the public to remain vigilant. Residents should look out for unmarked vehicles or individuals working near utility equipment who cannot produce official company identification. Suspicious activity should be reported to local law enforcement or directly to Optimum through their 24/7 customer support channels.