Man pleads not guilty to stealing Telstra copper

A Newcastle man accused of unearthing $110,000 of Telstra's copper cables has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

The 50-year-old man was charged with eight counts each of larceny and destroy or damage property in December 2010.

Newcastle Police alleged the man posed as a telephone technician and stole both old and active cabling, causing "major breaks in telecommunications for businesses and private residences" located in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie areas, about two hours north of Sydney.

It was alleged that the total damage bill exceeded $110,000.

In a brief appearance before Newcastle Local Court, the man entered a not guilty plea via a legal aid solicitor.

Conditional bail was continued and the matter was adjourned until 22 February.