In today’s economy, people are looking for ways to make ends meet, but meter tampering is not worth the deadly and costly risks. Aside from putting themselves and their family in a dangerous situation, the extra costs caused by meter cheaters can be a factor in increasing electric rates in the future.

The number of tampers in Southwest Florida has increased as the economy has declined – and with this rise, the employee time dedicated to addressing meter tampers has also increased. From January through June in 2009, LCEC had nearly 600 tampers, averaging nearly 100 per month. This average has been consistent since 2008. Previously, there had been cases of power theft, but they were slightly less frequent.

It may seem that stealing electricity is a victimless crime, but in fact, potentially all customers could share in the cost. LCEC is vigilant in detecting and seeking restitution for thefts at the meter. We aggressively investigate all cases of meter tampering, recover as much lost revenue as possible, and press criminal charges when appropriate. Florida law allows a utility to collect an amount equal to three times the amount of energy unlawfully obtained or $1,000, whichever is greater, from someone convicted in a civil action. Although many variables can affect the amount we actually receive for meter tamper cases, the amount billed in 2008 for meter tampering was $212,900 (approx $17,742 monthly), and so far for 2009, we have billed more than $85,000 as a result of meter tampers. 
Efforts to reduce costs resulting from this illegal activity are key, but more importantly, safety is at stake. Bypassing the meter and other methods used to steal electricity put those committing the theft, their families, LCEC employees and innocent bystanders in grave danger. Meters are connected to the electric lines that bring power into homes and even LCEC's technicians who are trained to handle meters and other electrical equipment are required to wear special safety gear and follow specific safety procedures. When someone untrained in working with a meter tampers, it can be life-threatening. Unauthorized alterations of the electric meter often lead to shock, fire, explosion or electrocution.
LCEC utilizes automated meters to help detect fraud, and field employees watch for suspicious circumstances. Customers can also report cases of potential meter theft at www.lcec.net.