A Doyline man was arrested June 23 after allegedly bypassing multiple water meters and accruing over $3,200 in unauthorized water usage, according to the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded at 7:37 PM to a report from a Jenkins Water representative regarding suspected utility theft by Scott Fuller, 61, of the 400 block of Coty Lane.
According to the representative, Fuller initially amassed a bill of $1,308.97 and was believed to have leaked approximately 314,950 gallons of water. Although the water meter was turned off, it had not been locked, and it was later found to have been turned back on. An additional 324,960 gallons of water were used, bringing Fuller’s total bill to $3,231.23.
The meter was then locked, but the locks were reportedly cut and the meter reactivated on two occasions. In response, Jenkins Water removed the meter entirely.
The utility provider later discovered an unauthorized meter had been installed and plumbed to Fuller’s property. That meter was also removed. This pattern reportedly repeated on three occasions, with each meter found operational and in the “off” position when discovered.
When questioned by a deputy, Fuller claimed he had no water service and demonstrated a non-working spigot. However, after being shown one of the three meter boxes on his property, a deputy turned the middle meter to the “on” position and returned to the residence. Fuller was asked to turn on a spigot, which then produced water. Fuller expressed surprise and denied knowledge of the meter being connected.
Fuller was arrested and charged with felony theft of utilities.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.