Electrician accused of stealing $13,500 in power

[January 30, 2009]  DERBY, Conn. (AP) -- Derby police say an electrical contractor used his expertise for no good. Andrew Natale, 45, was charged with larceny for allegedly bypassing his home's electricity meter and stealing about $13,500 worth of power dating back to 2003.

Natale posted $2,000 bail and is set to be arraigned Monday in Derby Superior Court. A message was left for Natale at his home Thursday morning.

Authorities said the arrest was the result of an investigation by police and the United Illuminating Co. They say a field worker discovered the problem.

UI spokesman Al Carbone said the illegal bypass was disconnected and reinstalled periodically. He said bypassing meters is dangerous and could cause electrocution or a fire.

[Associated Press]

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