LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) is using innovative tamper detection technology to combat the persistent theft of copper wiring from interstate light poles, a problem that has left highways dark overnight for years.
During Thursday’s bi-weekly press conference, LMPD announced that officers arrested 42-year-old Joseph Halbert just seven minutes after the system detected tampering on two light poles along I-64 West near the 22nd Street exit.
LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey highlighted the importance of protecting critical infrastructure despite the city’s focus on violent crime. “These criminals need to be put on notice that you’re next,” Humphrey said.
The tamper system alerts officers in real time when wiring is disturbed, allowing rapid response. On Tuesday, surveillance cameras confirmed Halbert tampering with the bases of the poles—where copper wiring is housed—causing lights to go out and compromising highway safety.
At the scene, officers found burglary tools such as pliers and an Allen wrench. Halbert admitted curiosity about the stolen copper but denied intent to steal. He faces charges of criminal mischief, possession of burglary tools, and trespassing. Halbert pleaded not guilty and remains held on $5,000 bond, with a preliminary hearing set for June 5.
To combat widespread thefts, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) installed solar-powered lighting on I-64 and I-264 last September with a $200,000 federal grant. KYTC estimates it would need over $1 million to replace all stolen copper wiring across Jefferson County.
