A large portion of Moore County lost internet service Sunday after Spectrum reported that one of its lines had been intentionally cut in what the company called an act of “malicious vandalism.”

The Moore County Sheriff’s Office said Spectrum reported an alarm indicating a loss of service around 3:53 a.m. Sunday, October 12. Repair crews were dispatched to investigate, and the Southern Pines Police Department was notified later that morning at 10:40 a.m. Once officials confirmed the site was in Moore County’s jurisdiction, the Sheriff’s Office was contacted at 12:48 p.m. Detectives were immediately deployed to begin an investigation.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the delay in reporting and several hours of repair work presented challenges in preserving the scene and collecting potential evidence. Early findings suggest the incident was an attempted wire theft rather than a targeted attack aimed at disrupting network service.

Damage from the cut line is estimated at more than $50,000. Law enforcement noted that wire thefts have been on the rise, particularly in the northern end of Moore County in recent months.

The outage left Spectrum customers across Pinehurst, Seven Lakes, Carthage, and other parts of the county without internet service through much of Sunday morning and afternoon.

Moore County Public Safety said the disruption also affected residents who rely on Spectrum for home phone service. While the 911 system itself remains fully functional, those without phone service may be unable to make emergency calls. Officials are urging anyone unable to reach 911 to go to their nearest fire station for help.

The Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information to contact the tip line at 910-947-4444 or submit information anonymously through the Moore County Sheriff’s Office app.

Spectrum is also offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible. Tips can be shared with Spectrum by calling 833-404-TIPS (8477).