Verizon announced on August 13, 2026 that it will pay a $25,000 reward to anyone whose information results in the arrest and conviction of the people responsible for cutting fiber‑optic cables in Southern California. The vandalism, which took place over the weekend, knocked out telephone and internet service for a large number of residents across the region.
The utility provider said the reward is intended to encourage the public to come forward with any details that could identify the perpetrators. The offer applies only if the information leads to both an arrest and a conviction, according to the statement released by Verizon.
The incident involved the deliberate severing of multiple fiber‑optic lines that carry both voice and data traffic. The damage disrupted service for households and businesses, leaving many without access to essential communication tools during a period when many rely on digital connectivity for work, education and emergency services.
Authorities have not released the number of customers affected, but the outage was described as large‑scale. Police and utility crews worked through the weekend to assess the damage and begin repairs. Restoration efforts are ongoing, with technicians restoring service as quickly as possible while investigations continue.
Verizon emphasized that the reward is part of a broader effort to deter future acts of vandalism against critical infrastructure. The company urged anyone who saw suspicious activity near cable routes, or who has knowledge of who might have been involved, to contact law enforcement. The reward is payable only after the legal process confirms a conviction.
The incident adds to a growing list of infrastructure attacks that have raised concerns about the vulnerability of telecommunications networks. Verizon’s public appeal reflects the company’s reliance on community assistance to address the immediate investigative needs while service is being restored across Southern California.