The Town is actively monitoring telecommunication utility outages and coordinating closely with utility companies and the Sheriff’s Office. Copper theft and the vandalism of communications infrastructure are serious criminal matters that disrupt services for utility customers, public safety, and the community at large. To address this, the Town has requested that the Sheriff’s Office deploy overtime patrol units during the early morning hours, when these incidents typically occur, in an effort to deter activity and catch those responsible.
The Sheriff’s Office is utilizing all available investigative tools, including camera systems. Currently, there are Flock ALPRs (Automated License Plate Readers) located along Alpine Road, Portola Road, and Page Mill Road that provide coverage just outside the Town limits. Sheriff’s Office deputies and investigators are also actively working on these incidents in conjunction with AT&T, Comcast, and regional partners. The Town and Sheriff’s Office will continue focusing on patrol and investigative efforts on this issue for the foreseeable future.
If residents observe suspicious activity around utility lines or vehicles stopped along roadways during overnight hours, please report it to the non-emergency line at 650-363-4911 so deputies can respond. To ensure that communication systems remain operational in the event of outages, the Town and Woodside Fire Protection District utilize Starlink systems as backups to AT&T and Comcast.
The Town has also been in contact with AT&T, who shared their informational website regarding copper theft prevention (https://about.att.com/pages/copper-theft-prevention). Notably, Northern California ranks as AT&T’s third-highest region for copper theft, while the state of California holds the top position overall. In California, AT&T’s multi-pronged strategy to deter theft includes increased network hardening efforts, such as manhole security enhancements, traceable marking and paint on copper wiring, and enhanced surveillance and sensor technology. They also actively collaborate with state officials, law enforcement, and others impacted through data sharing, public safety bulletins, and civil litigation.
