RTD: Stolen copper wire keeps disrupting rail service

DENVER (KDVR) — The public is asked to stay vigilant for suspicious behavior near RTD tracks, where copper wire thefts have been causing issues across the transit system.

RTD reported five cases of stolen copper wire in the last week alone, most of it along the R Line between Peoria Station in Aurora and Lincoln Station in Lone Tree, according to a release on Monday afternoon.

RTD said the thefts are happening overnight near track signals, switches and rail crossings and reflect a nationwide trend as thieves take advantage of the demand for copper. The thefts are causing problems like train delays and stuck crossing arms.

Other thefts have happened along the A and G commuter rail lines, including a Monday theft along the A Line that caused signal issues and forced riders on bus shuttles between Union Station and Central Park.

RTD said a similar trend of copper wire thefts disrupted service in 2022, and the transit agency has been working since to discourage thieves.

"The agency started embedding the copper wire in railroad ties, installing wooden covers, and greasing the wires to make them less valuable. RTD has also pil...