By Rick Pluta, Michigan Public Radio Network
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-914111.mp3
LANSING, MI –
A new law cracks down harder on people who steal energy from a utility. As Michigan Public Radio's Rick Pluta reports, utilities say they've seen a growing number of cases of people siphoning gas and electricity.
AUDIO:
The illegal connections can be dangerous. Jumper cables patched into power lines expose people to the risk of electrocution. Rigged gas connections can cause fires.
And the work of investigating energy theft and turning off illegal connections can also be dangerous - including dealing with angry people.
"The key is, you've read it. If they're talking, you got a chance. If they're not talking, you'd better start running."
David Heatherly is a theft investigator for DTE Energy.
"I've had 40 caliber pistols put on me," he says. "I've had knives pointed at me. I've had ball bats, dogs let out on me."
The new law will make it a five-year felony to attack a utility worker shutting off an illegal connection. The hope is that will serve as a deterrent to people who want to take out their anger on utility workers doing their job.