LAS VEGAS, Aug. 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- "He who does not prevent a crime when he can, encourages it," said the Roman philosopher, Seneca. Embarq Corporation is not only heeding Seneca's advice but asking Las Vegas residents to join with them in stopping a crime that affects the entire community -- communications cable theft.
EMBARQ is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and prosecution of anyone stealing the company's live traffic-carrying cable, primarily copper, in the Las Vegas area. Cable theft is an industry issue with criminals stealing the cable for monetary gain.
"A typical Crime Stopper incentive is anywhere between $250 and $2,000, and we are grateful that EMBARQ is sweetening the reward," said Detective Mike Hope, director of Crime Stoppers of Nevada. "We're starting to see companies and associations across the nation start offering rewards, and I am pleased EMBARQ has recognized the seriousness of cable theft enough to get actively engaged and really take this effort to another level."
Citizens who have information regarding the theft of live copper cable are asked to call Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555 if they wish to remain anonymous.
"When people steal cable, it puts the entire community at risk," said Jim Hansen, senior vice president of Network Services at EMBARQ. "Cutting cable can cut emergency communications which affects everyone. Imagine having a loved one suddenly in need of emergency medical assistance, only to find communications services don't work because someone just cut the cable to steal the copper. This is a threat to everyone."
Officials believe that the copper is taken to recycling centers where it is sold as scrap. So far in Las Vegas, Hope says, more than 60 people have been arrested for copper theft this year. Stealing cable doesn't come without risks. Aside from the potential for arrest, there have been more than a dozen reports nationwide in recent months of copper thieves being electrocuted while attempting to steal copper cable.
About Embarq
Embarq Corporation , headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas, offers a complete suite of common sense communications services. The company has approximately 20,000 employees and operates in 18 states. EMBARQ is included in the S&P 500.
For consumers, EMBARQ offers an innovative portfolio of services that includes reliable local and long distance home phone service, high-speed Internet, wireless, and satellite TV from DISH Network(R) -- all on one monthly bill.
For businesses, EMBARQ has a comprehensive range of flexible and integrated services designed to help businesses of all sizes be more productive and communicate with their customers. This service portfolio includes local voice and data services, long distance, Business Class DSL, wireless, enhanced data network services, voice and data communication equipment and managed network services.
EMBARQ ranked highest in customer satisfaction among large enterprise businesses, according to J.D. Power and Associates Study. The company achieved this ranking by scoring highest overall with large enterprise businesses in these critical factors: performance and reliability, cost of service, offerings and promotions, sales representatives and account executives, company image, and billing.
EMBARQ believes that by focusing on the communities the company serves and by employing common sense and practical ingenuity, it is able to provide customers with a committed partner, dedicated customer service and innovative products for work and home. For more information, visit http://embarq.com/.
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