Cox Communications offers reward for information on battery thefts
Aug 2, 2020, 1:30 PM | Updated: 5:21 pm
(Cox Communications Photo)
(Cox Communications Photo)
PHOENIX — Cox Communications is asking for the public’s help in cracking down on battery theft and vandalism across the Valley.
On Tuesday, the company said more than 600 of it’s cabinets have been broken into over the past 18 months, causing damage, loss of property and potential interruptions to service for customers, according to a press release.
Silent Witness is partnering with Cox Communications to offer people a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible or the return of the stolen batteries.
Those who see suspicious activity or unmarked vehicles near the utility cabinets, particularly after dark, are urged to immediately contact Silent Witness at 480-WITNESS (948-6377) or 480-TESTIGO (837-8446) for Spanish.
Calls are anonymous and the company said cellphone photos of the damaged cabinets are also helpful.
“When theft and damage occur, it affects everyone. When a customer’s services go down, they lose their ability stay connected via the internet and can lose phone service, which can impact phone 911 service,” Susan Anable, Cox Southwest vice president for public affairs, said in the release.
“This damage and theft is not just a crime against Cox, it can impact the surrounding neighborhood.”
The company said batteries in the cabinets weigh approximately 65 pounds and are slightly larger than car batteries.
