Police in Fort Smith arrested a man Monday after investigating an alleged theft of electricity involving extension cords connected between two residences.
According to the Fort Smith Police Department, officers responded to the 3100 block of Phoenix Avenue after utility workers reported suspicious electrical activity at the property.
Investigators say the case involved unlawful use of electrical services and led to the arrest of a man wanted on multiple outstanding warrants.
Quick Summary of the Incident
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 3100 block of Phoenix Avenue, Fort Smith |
| Main Investigation | Alleged theft of electricity |
| Suspect Arrested | Aaron Young |
| Suspect Age | 36 |
| Additional Warrants | Multiple active warrants |
| Largest Bond Mentioned | $100,000 Crawford County warrant |
| Additional Charge | Theft of services |
| Jail Location | Sebastian County Adult Detention Center |
Utility Workers Reported Suspicious Extension Cords
According to police, the investigation began on May 11 after utility workers discovered extension cords running between two nearby residences.
Authorities allege the cords were being used to unlawfully obtain electricity.
The situation prompted utility crews to contact police for further investigation.
Theft of services cases involving electricity often occur when individuals attempt to bypass utility billing systems or illegally connect power sources between properties.
Property Owner Allowed Police to Enter Homes
Police said the property owner later arrived at the scene and informed officers that neither of the residences had a valid lease agreement in place.
The owner then reportedly gave officers permission to enter and clear both structures.
During the search of one residence, officers located Aaron Young, 36.
Aaron Young Had Multiple Active Warrants
According to investigators, Young had several active warrants at the time officers found him inside the residence.
One of the warrants reportedly came from Crawford County and carried a $100,000 bond.
Police took Young into custody without incident.
Authorities then transported him to the Sebastian County Adult Detention Center.
Additional Theft of Services Charge Filed
In addition to the outstanding warrants, police also charged Young with theft of services related to the alleged electricity theft investigation.
Theft of services charges generally involve unlawfully obtaining utilities, labor, transportation, or other services without proper payment.
Police have not yet released additional information regarding how long the alleged illegal electrical setup had been operating.
Illegal Utility Connections Can Be Dangerous
Law enforcement and utility companies frequently warn that illegal electrical connections can create serious safety risks.
Improper wiring and unauthorized power connections can increase the risk of:
- Electrical fires
- Power surges
- Electrocution
- Damage to utility infrastructure
Utility theft can also create financial losses for service providers and neighboring customers.
Authorities encourage residents to report suspicious utility tampering or unauthorized wiring to local officials.
Investigation Remains Ongoing
The Fort Smith Police Department has not announced whether additional suspects or charges may be involved in the case.
Investigators continue reviewing the circumstances surrounding the alleged theft of electricity and the occupancy status of the properties involved.
