Los Angeles Moves Forward With Reward System to Curb Copper Thefts

LOS ANGELES—The Los Angeles City Council June 28 approved a reward program intended to curb copper wire thefts and make progress in arresting suspects involved in those crimes. In a 10–2 vote, council members moved to implement a tiered reward offer program for crimes involving the theft of city plaques, tombstones, statues, light standards and copper wire. Residents who provide information leading to the identification, apprehension and conviction of suspects responsible for such crimes can receive rewards. Councilman Kevin de León’s office said misdemeanor convictions are set at $1,000 while felony convictions are set at $5,000. The program will need approval by Mayor Karen Bass before it can be enacted....