Since December 2024, police have received over 20 reports about switching cubicles in southwest Edmonton that have been targeted for copper wire theft. These cubicles are locked units that receive and distribute electricity, as pictured below, and are often reported to be left open with exposed live electrical wires after they have been broken into.
If members of the public encounter a switching cubicle that has been tampered with, police are advising them to stay away from the electrical unit and to contact them immediately. Police are also asking the public to contact them immediately should they observe suspicious persons tampering with switching cubicles.
Example of switching cubicle
Example of tampered switching cubicle
“As we continue to see a rise of copper wire theft and switching cubicle damage throughout southwest Edmonton, we are warning the public about the serious safety risks that these cubicle’s carry because of exposed live wires,” says A/S/Sgt. Marc Goudreau with the EPS’ Investigations Branch. “If you come across a switching cubicle that has been broken into, please keep your distance and contact us immediately for assistance. The EPS will continue to work with utility providers across Edmonton to ensure that thefts and damages to electrical equipment are properly reported and investigated.”