Is stealing electricity a crime in Michigan?
Stealing electricity and natural gas is dangerous and it’s also against the law. It is illegal to tamper with electric or natural gas service, or reconnect it. In Michigan, energy theft is a crime and can result in fines and /or jail time.
What is the penalty for stealing electricity?
Stealing energy entitles jail. Whether for personal use or third party consumer, whoever does illegal connections and/or using energy unregistered in energy meters is punished with imprisonment from 1 to 5 years. Who, in turn, consume energy obtained in this way is punished with 1 to 3 years.
How does the media find out about court cases?
Journalists often go to court to report on the cases being heard. When they are there, a reporter will take notes, recording the trial. Journalists use these notes to make sure that their reports are accurate. A newspaper can use these notes as evidence that they took care to make sure that their article was accurate.
How do you know if someone has tapped into your electricity?
Take a look at the wire that runs between your meter and your house (don’t touch it!). If you notice anything odd, there’s a chance that someone’s tampered with it. Also be on the look-out for any wires connecting your home to your neighbour’s. Your meter acting strangely.
Is stealing electricity a criminal Offence?
6. Electricity theft is a crime. If you are caught tampering with your supply or meter, you could receive a fine or go to prison.
Is there a class action lawsuit against DTE Energy?
Metro Detroit residents have filed a class action lawsuit in Wayne County Circuit Court against DTE Energy on allegations that the company didn’t do enough to ensure reliable electrical power to the Freud pump station.
Who is DTE Energy and what do they do?
DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include an electric company serving 2.2 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company serving 1.3 million customers in Michigan.
Do you hang up on DTE Energy calls?
If a caller insists on payment via a prepaid debit card — especially a specific brand of prepaid card — it is a scam. DO NOT trust your caller ID. Scammers are using caller ID spoofing to make the call appear to originate from DTE Energy. If you suspect the call may be fraudulent, hang up and call DTE Customer Service at 800.477.4747.
What happens if you are behind on payments to DTE?
If a customer is behind on payments, DTE will mail a warning notice, providing the steps to restore the account to good standing and continue service. Alarm bells should ring when someone calls and says a crew is on the way to shut off service unless there’s an immediate payment.