Latest figures from the Home Office reveal that electricity theft in the West Midlands has risen substantially.
West Midlands Police received 787 reports between March 2021-2022 regarding the “dishonest use of electricity” compared to 319 in the previous year.
It’s a similar story across the UK, with a 13 percent increase in reports compared to the previous year and the highest level of reports received since records began in 2013.
The rise comes following heavy increases in energy bills with many families struggling to meet the demands of energy companies.
Though the maximum punishment for electricity theft is five years in prison, the Home Office revealed that only 7% of those identified as stealing electricity were charged.
Warning Issued Over Electricity Theft
Following the latest report, West Midlands Police has reminded people of the dangers of tampering with electricity:
“Tampering with electricity supplies or bypassing a meter is extremely dangerous and could cause serious injury or death.
“Many cases of electricity theft are linked to cannabis factories where offenders try to bypass meters to power the significant heat and light sources needed to cultivate plants.
“We’ve seen many cases of dodgy wiring leading to fires.
“We work with energy companies who will alert us to any suspicious activity at properties and will take action where appropriate.”
The National Energy Action Campaign Group (NEA) has predicted that the average annual energy bill could rise to £3,358 from October and has called for more support for families from the government.