Albuquerque, NM (KKOB) — A new proposal from Albuquerque city councilors looks to address a recent rise in copper wire thefts, especially along East Central. The ordinance would expand current rules by banning instant cash payouts for copper and requiring scrap yards to hold materials for 15 days. It would also require daily reporting of transactions to Albuquerque police and more detailed record-keeping from sellers. At the same time, the city is switching to aluminum wiring in some areas and securing streetlight panels to prevent access. Leaders say the goal is to reduce theft and limit the resale of stolen materials
