Halton Regional Police have uncovered a series of copper thefts in Milton and Halton Hills, allegedly orchestrated by a local man aiming to profit by cutting telecommunication lines from utility poles.
Reports of stolen copper cable have been on the rise since the start of 2026, prompting concerns among residents and authorities. The thefts involve the illicit removal of copper from utility poles, with the stolen material then being sold for cash at scrap yards.
Each theft not only inflicts financial losses but also leads to service disruptions for rural communities, emphasizing the broader impact of such criminal activities.
After launching an investigation in April 2026, Halton police intensified their efforts and honed in on a suspect by June. A crucial breakthrough occurred when authorities responded to a fire incident in Milton, where they caught the suspect attempting to strip stolen copper cable for sale.
Despite a brief escape attempt at high speed, the suspect, identified as Stewart Winney, 41, was apprehended on June 9. Winney now faces multiple charges, including mischief, possession of stolen property, dangerous driving, and trafficking offenses.
While Winney’s case is ongoing, police suspect that other individuals may be involved in the theft ring, underscoring the ongoing nature of the investigation.