RTD Copper Wire Thefts Drop 68 Percent

The Regional Transportation District reported an 80 percent decrease in copper wire thefts during the first nine months of 2026. The transit agency recorded eight such incidents through September of this year. That total compares to 25 incidents during the same period last year. This data reflects the first full year of operations for the RTD Transit Police Detective Bureau.

The bureau launched in early 2025. Before its creation, the RTD Transit Police relied on a smaller team for investigative work. The new structure allows the agency to pursue cases across its 40 municipality service area. It handles misdemeanors, felonies, and crimes against infrastructure and passengers.

Four individuals were arrested for copper wire theft this year. These arrests followed focused investigative efforts by the new detective unit. The agency has also built relationships with local scrap metal yards. These partners help identify stolen materials from rail lines and deter the resale of copper.

The bureau’s scope includes thefts under $300, criminal mischief, and harassment. Commander Jonathan Holloway leads the four-person detective team. He noted that the cases range from property crimes to public safety threats. The unit assists outside agencies when resources are limited.

On October 13, RTD officers joined a multi-agency search for a suspect. The team included a K-9 unit. The search was coordinated with the Thornton Police Department. The suspect was apprehended during the operation.

RTD Transit Police do not maintain their own holding facility. Partner agencies provide detention space for suspects. Holloway stated that these partnerships allow for more effective coordination. He said the relationships are invaluable for processing arrests and supporting joint public safety efforts.

All RTD Transit Police officers receive training on incident documentation. They follow specific procedures for in-custody arrests based on county requirements. This process helps the detective bureau submit cases for timely criminal filings. A victim advocate specialist supports operators and victims during court proceedings.

The agency shares Be On the Lookout notices with other law enforcement groups to identify suspects. RTD reports one security related call for every 2,330 boardings on average. Reports of illicit drug activity dropped by more than 50 percent for most months in 2026. The agency recently launched the NextRide mobile app for fare purchases and activity reporting.