Price hikes ignite gas thefts: utilities hunt meter bypassers

High prices have increased commercial theft of gas to the point where special investigative units are forming to find and prosecute those who bypass meters to avoid recording their consumption. Tips from customers or competitors often alert the investigators. Direct siphoning and reopening closed valves are other techniques used by thieves. Utilities warn that these practices are dangerous as well as unlawful. They also warn that sophisticated billing procedures make it easier to detect theft. (DCK)