Police lights at scene of crime - File photo © Fernando Gregory | Dreamstime.com

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ – A stretch of roadway near the South Brunswick border became the focus of a police investigation after a large-scale copper wire theft left telecommunications infrastructure stripped and officials searching for answers. The theft, reported late this week, involved a significant amount of material taken from utility poles along Riva Avenue.

The East Brunswick Police Department said it responded to the area following a report of missing copper wiring, with Verizon estimating the loss at approximately $100,000. The stolen material was taken from old landline wiring attached to telephone poles, raising concerns about how the theft was carried out and who may be responsible.

Investigation centers on Riva Avenue corridor

According to the department, the theft is believed to have occurred between April 1 and April 2 along Riva Avenue between Church Lane and the South Brunswick border. Officials indicated the scale of the operation suggests specialized equipment was likely used.

“It is believed the suspect(s) would have had to use a bucket truck to commit the theft,” the East Brunswick Police Department said in its public alert.

Police are now asking residents and commuters in the area to report any suspicious activity, particularly involving work trucks or individuals seen near utility poles during that timeframe.

Public urged to report tips

The department issued a public call for assistance as detectives continue to gather leads. “***PLEASE SHARE*** The East Brunswick Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance,” the agency stated in its announcement.

Officials are urging anyone who may have seen unusual activity or has information about the incident to come forward. “The East Brunswick Police Department is asking the public to report any suspicious persons and/or work trucks on Riva Avenue between Church Lane and the South Brunswick border,” the statement said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Alex Danese by email at adanese@ebpd.net or by phone at 732-390-6990. Anonymous tips can also be submitted by calling 732-4EBTIPS (328477) or through the Middlesex County tip website.

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