utility theft
[/juːˈtɪləti θɛft/]
nounpl: utility thefts
roubo de serviços públicos
1. The illegal act of obtaining or using utility services such as electricity, water, gas, or telecommunications without payment or authorization
The utility theft ring was dismantled after investigators discovered illegal connections to the power grid.
A quadrilha de roubo de serviços públicos foi desmantelada após investigadores descobrirem conexões ilegais à rede elétrica.
2. Tampering with, bypassing, or manipulating utility meters to reduce or eliminate charges for services
He was arrested for utility theft after authorities found his electricity meter had been deliberately altered.
Ele foi preso por roubo de serviços públicos após as autoridades encontrarem seu medidor de eletricidade deliberadamente alterado.
In Brazil, particularly in Rio de Janeiro and other major cities, utility theft (especially electricity theft through 'gatos') is a widespread socioeconomic issue affecting utility companies and infrastructure. In the USA, utility theft is treated as a serious federal crime, particularly when involving telecommunications or coordinated schemes. Both countries have specialized investigation units to combat this crime.
NYC Slang
juice jacking / tapping the line (informal)
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