Tampering is also a criminal offense that can lead to arrest and prosecution. If CREC suspects meter tampering, we will disconnect your power immediately and report the crime to local authorities. In addition to the penalties, you will face for breaking the law, CREC will also charge you with meter tampering fees.

The operational characteristic of an electric utility requires the Cooperative to pursue legal action against an individual for illegally altering, removing, connecting, tampering, or damaging a meter which is owned by the Cooperative which is used for measuring electricity used by the member. The responsible parties shall also be responsible for payment in full of all applicable fees, material costs, and labor expenses prior to the restoration of service. Such fees and costs may include but are not limited to: meter replacement or installation charges, reconnection fees, labor charges, equipment repair or replacement costs, trip or service call fees, and any applicable increases to required deposits.  The cost of equipment repair or replacement shall be determined based on the current market or supplier pricing at the time of assessment. All charges shall be reviewed and approved by the Vice President of Finance and Accounting on a case-by-case basis.

We take this issue very seriously and will work with law enforcement to ensure the safety and well-being of our members and the community.