POWER THIEVES ARE LEFT IN DARK

York drug cops say Markham Hydro has saved $1.4 million this year by
unplugging 163 homes that had bypassed fuse boxes and meters, most of
them to feed marijuana growing operations.

Hydro companies in Markham, Richmond Hill and Newmarket launched a
program earlier this year that cuts the power to homes found stealing
hydro.

Possibility of Fire

It's also a safety issue, since bypassed power isn't regulated by
electrical panels, there's an increased possibility of fire.

"They're doing a great job," vice squad Det. Mike Klimm
said.

It's estimated $72-million worth of electricity a year is stolen in
the region and if the theft can't be recovered from the thieves, the
difference is eventually made up by ratepayers.

The companies estimate about $2,000 worth of electricity a month is
stolen by each home rigged with a bypass around the electrical meter.