New Bill Targets Copper Theft Leaving Inglewood Streets in Darkness

A new bill proposed in the California State Assembly aims to address the growing problem of copper theft that has left streets darkened across Southern California, including neighborhoods in Inglewood and Compton.

Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez (D-Los Angeles) has introduced Assembly Bill 476, which would strengthen regulations around scrap metal purchases and sales, potentially providing relief to communities affected by copper wire theft from street lights.

“These measures will increase transparency, discourage illicit sales and ensure accountability throughout the recycling and resale process,” according to an analysis of the bill reported by LAist.

The legislation comes as copper theft continues to plague the region, with thieves targeting street lighting infrastructure for the valuable metal. The resulting darkened streets have created public safety concerns for residents and businesses across Los Angeles County.

In one high-profile example, thieves stole approximately 38,000 feet of copper wire—more than seven miles—from the 6th Street Bridge in Los Angeles, undermining the structure’s planned “ribbon of light” design.

“These crimes go beyond financial losses; they create unsafe conditions for residents and businesses by leaving streets, neighborhoods and business corridors in complete darkness,” Gonzalez said.

For Inglewood residents, copper theft has been a persistent issue affecting street lighting in several neighborhoods, creating safety hazards for pedestrians and motorists while increasing concerns about crime in darkened areas. The Inglewood Department of Public Works has been forced to allocate resources to repair damaged lighting infrastructure throughout the city.

The timing of the legislation is particularly relevant as the city of Los Angeles considers cutting the Department of Street Lighting’s budget by approximately $3 million in its proposed budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year, potentially limiting the department’s ability to address copper theft.

If passed, AB 476 would require more detailed documentation for scrap metal sales and create additional deterrents for those attempting to sell stolen copper. The bill is currently moving through committee hearings in Sacramento.

This story draws on information from KTLA and LAist reporting.