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Log InService Commission sends warnings out to truckers
The Public Service Commission of West Virginia recently released a warning to drivers and fleet management operators to avoid taking water from fire hydrants, as there has been an increase in water-related thefts throughout the state. The warnings aim to prevent truckers from coming in the crossfire of law enforcement efforts cracking down on fire hydrant water thefts that are on the rise in the region.
The local water utility is reporting significant amounts of water being taken from fire hydrants without any consent or approval, or plans of reimbursement. These acts are considered criminal acts of water theft, and if caught, the perpetrators will be prosecuted with a misdemeanor for intent to evade payment. Any trucker, company or individual caught stealing fire hydrant water could face up to one year in prison or a fine of $2,000. If the thefts continue, the utility companies will have to increase their water rates to compensate for the lost materials.
The fire hydrant thefts are not isolated to West Virginia communities, and have been reported in parts of North Carolina as well. The warnings underscore the importance of notifying water utility providers of any potential attempts to collect water from hydrants so both parties can insure reimbursement for the water in a timely manner. Otherwise, the utility providers will have to assume the water has been stolen and proceed with legal action.
Service Commission sends warnings out to truckers
Thursday, June 21st, 2012
The Public Service Commission of West Virginia recently released a warning to drivers and fleet management operators to avoid taking water from fire hydrants, as there has been an increase in water-related thefts throughout the state.
