Abstracting of electricity
A person commits abstracting of electricity under section 15 of the Theft Ordinance, by dishonestly using any electricity without due authority, or dishonestly causes any electricity to be wasted or diverted.
For example, this could involve illegally connecting a flat’s wiring directly to the main supply of the building in order to avoid paying electricity charges.
The maximum sentence of this offence is 5 years’ imprisonment. Where straightforward unauthorised reconnection of domestic electricity supply is concerned, the courts have indicated that a fine may be appropriate. Factors relevant to sentence include the degree of sophistication involved, any damage caused to the supply system, and the extent of danger posed to other residents or occupants of the building.
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