power line tapping
[/ˈpaʊər laɪn ˈtæpɪŋ/]
nounpl: power line tappings
furto de energia elétrica
1. The illegal act of connecting to electrical power lines without authorization to obtain free electricity
Power line tapping is a serious crime that poses safety risks to both the perpetrator and the community.
O furto de energia elétrica é um crime grave que apresenta riscos de segurança tanto para o perpetrador quanto para a comunidade.
2. The unauthorized installation of devices or connections to divert electrical current from public utility lines
The utility company discovered power line tapping in the favela and disconnected the illegal connections.
A companhia de energia descobriu furto de energia na favela e desconectou as ligações ilegais.
In Brazil, particularly in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, power line tapping is a widespread socioeconomic issue affecting low-income communities and favelas. The practice, locally known as 'gato de luz,' reflects inequality in access to utilities and poses significant safety hazards including electrocution, fires, and explosions. It is aggressively prosecuted by utility companies and law enforcement as both a criminal and public safety matter. In the USA, power line tapping is less common but remains a serious federal crime with severe penalties.
NYC Slang
stealing juice; bootlegging power
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