Cable theft threatens entire communityLAS VEGAS, Aug 22, 2007 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- "He who does not prevent a
crime when he can, encourages it," said the Roman philosopher, Seneca. Embarq
Corporation (NYSE: EQ) 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 (NYSE: EQ), 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.
SOURCE Embarq Corporation
media, Charles Fleckenstein, +1-913-345-6545, charles.m.fleckenstein@embarq.com, or
Vicki Soares, +1-702-244-3621, vicki.soares@embarq.com, both of Embarq Corporation
http://www.embarq.com