Summary
Thieves cut and stole copper wiring from ball field lights at Stearns Park and Hartwell Park just as baseball season started. Crews restored lights within days, and the department is hardening pull boxes against break-ins. The problem is citywide, affecting street lights too.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 5
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jun 11, 2026.
Impact analysis
January losses hit $5,773, with $19,942 in vandalism costs so far this fiscal year — though that's down from last year.
Youth baseball leagues and park users get their lights back quickly and safer fields.
Residents face darkened fields and streets, and taxpayers absorb repair costs.
Mentions & discussions (5)
Parks and Recreation Commission Governance Committee - Jun 11, 2026
May losses hit $7,057, including a burned porta-potty at DeForest Park. Police have made arrests in copper wire theft cases that hit parks and street lights.
Parks and Recreation Commission - Feb 19, 2026
Thieves cut and stole copper wire from park and sports field lighting right as baseball season started. Crews fixed Stearns and Hartwell Park fields within two days, and staff are working with Public Works and other cities on deterrents.
Marine Advisory Commission Marine and Beach Maintenance/Operations Committee - Feb 12, 2026
Thieves stole copper wire from the Rainbow Lagoon holiday lights display, and stolen Long Beach plaques turned up in Orange County. The committee discussed pushing for a state law holding recyclers accountable.
Parks and Recreation Commission Governance Committee - Feb 12, 2026
Thieves cut and stole copper wiring from ball field lights at Stearns Park and Hartwell Park just as baseball season started. Crews restored lights within days, and the department is hardening pull boxes against break-ins. The problem is citywide, affecting street lights too.
Parks and Recreation Commission Governance Committee - Jan 8, 2026
Thieves stole four of five plaques from the MLK statue in December, part of a citywide wave of plaque and copper wire theft. The department is testing 3D-printed replica plaques that look authentic but have no scrap value.
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