Waterloo Regional Police are launching a proactive initiative in Cambridge to address an increase in thefts involving scrap metal, copper wire, and other materials from businesses and construction sites.

The initiative, led by the South Division Crime Suppression, Analysis, and Response (CSAR) Unit, will run from June 17 to July 8, 2026. Officers will focus on prevention, enforcement, and education in locations identified through crime analysis.

Between February 4 and May 30, 2026, Waterloo Regional Police investigated 38 incidents involving scrap metal or wire thefts across Cambridge. These incidents have primarily occurred overnight and on weekends in industrial and construction areas across Cambridge, particularly in the north end and Galt areas.

Targets have included commercial properties under renovation, construction sites, homes under construction, metal recycling businesses, and power equipment stores. In several incidents, suspects have also targeted telecommunications infrastructure, cutting wire from Bell lines at multiple locations, resulting in estimated losses and damages in the hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Stolen items have included copper wiring, scrap metal, tools, and wiring removed from heating and cooling systems.

Investigations indicate suspects are using a variety of methods to gain access, including entering fenced compounds, cutting locks on sea cans, prying doors and windows, and even damaging structures to create entry points. Once inside, suspects often remove wire and metal materials quickly due to their resale value and ease of transport.

“These thefts are often opportunistic and occur when materials are left unsecured, visible, or accessible, particularly after hours,” said Staff Sergeant Jay MacSween of WRPS’ South Division CSAR Unit.

As part of the initiative, officers will be conducting proactive patrols and targeted enforcement in identified problem areas. They will also be visiting businesses, construction sites, and industrial locations to share information about current trends and provide practical crime prevention advice.

Police are encouraging businesses and site operators to take steps to reduce the risk of theft, including:

• Securing materials in locked buildings, containers, or fenced compounds
• Keeping valuable items out of public view
• Posting clearly visible No Trespassing signage
• Installing and maintaining video surveillance systems
• Ensuring adequate lighting around storage areas and entry points
• Restricting access to sites and securing gates and locks
• Marking materials where possible and conducting regular inventory checks

Timely reporting remains critical. Police are urging the public and business owners to report suspicious activity and thefts as soon as possible, as surveillance footage and witness information can assist investigations and support enforcement efforts.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Waterloo Regional Police at 519-570-9777 or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1‑800‑222‑8477 or online at www.waterloocrimestoppers.com.