RTD reports copper wire thefts down 68% since detective unit formed
Regional Transit Police recorded eight thefts through September, down from 25 during the same period last year.
By Amina Howard ·
The Regional Transportation District reported a 68% drop in copper wire thefts on its rail lines this year. Through September 2026, the agency recorded eight such incidents. That is down from 25 thefts during the same period in 2025. The reduction coincides with the first year of operation for the RTD Transit Police Detective Bureau.
Four individuals have been arrested for copper wire theft this year. The agency attributes these arrests to the focused investigative work of its new detective unit. The bureau also formed partnerships with local scrap metal yards. These partners now help raise awareness about stolen rail line materials to deter the sale of the copper.
The detective bureau handles a wide range of investigations across 40 municipalities. Its caseload includes thefts under $300, criminal mischief, menacing, harassment, and fraud. Commander Jonathan Holloway leads the four-person unit. He stated that the cases reflect a mix of property crimes affecting customers and infrastructure, as well as public safety threats.
The expanded bureau allows RTD Transit Police to assist other agencies in joint investigations. On October 13, Transit Police officers and a K-9 unit helped the Thornton Police Department locate a suspect. The suspect was apprehended during that multi-agency search. This collaboration is part of the department's ongoing work with regional law enforcement partners.
Holloway noted that dedicated investigators who understand transit dynamics help coordinate more effectively with local agencies. Since RTD Transit Police does not operate its own holding facility, partner agencies provide access to holding centers for detaining suspects. He described these partnerships as invaluable for arrests and joint public safety efforts.
All RTD-PD officers are trained to document incidents and follow specific procedures for in-custody arrests. These procedures align with the requirements of the counties in the service area. The training streamlines the process for submitting cases and ensures timely criminal filings. A victim’s advocate specialist has also supported operators and individuals through the court process over the past year.
The agency uses “Be On the Lookout” notices shared among law enforcement to help identify and apprehend suspects. RTD publishes security metrics monthly. On average, the agency records one security-related call for every 2,330 boardings. Reports of illicit drug activity have dropped more than 50% in most months of 2026, continuing a trend of improvement from 2025.
