2 charged after copper wire theft that left 2,000 Calgarians without internet, phone service

A man and woman have been charged with the theft of telecommunication wire that left more than 2,000 Calgarians without internet or phone service.

Calgary police say they believed three people entered several manholes to steal critical infrastructure wire in early December.

It cut off service to residents of the area and caused $276,000 in property damage.

Police say a search warrant on a residence earlier this month found evidence consistent with the theft and resale of copper wire.

A 50-year-old man and 40-year-old woman have been charged with theft over $5,000 and other offences.

The man is scheduled to appear in court Tuesday, while the woman is to appear on Jan. 31.