It's OK to steal?

[NewsWhore]

Middle and lower class Dominicans are not in agreement with the idea of such extreme measures when it comes to punishing energy thieves. A poll conducted by Diario Libre shows that many feel that there should not be sanctions against people who steal energy because a large portion of the population pays such high prices for a bad service. The poll showed that many Dominicans feel that this measure would only affect the poorer sectors of society because people with economic resources would not be penalized. Energy Superintendent Francisco Mendez countered these arguments by saying that anyone, rich or poor, who steals will be punished. Mendez is quoted in Hoy, saying that people don't steal energy and then walk around as if they haven't done anything wrong in any other country in the world. Mendez said that the only way to have a quality energy system is for everyone to pay for the energy they consume. These concerns are in response to a proposal that was submitted to the President by the State Electric Companies (CDEEE), which calls for stiff penalties and even jail for anyone caught stealing power. The proposal has been reviewed by a special Presidential commission and would grant discretionary powers to the local electricity distribution companies (the EDEs) to determine whether fraud exists, but it does not have any consumer protection mechanisms. The proposal would punish tampering with electric meters, using electronic devices or making direct connections to the system. Even "attempting to commit fraud" is punishable in the proposal. The maximum penalty could be up to five years in jail.

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