(a) A person commits the crime of tampering with a utility if he:

    (1)    Tampers or makes connection with property of a utility; or

    (2)    Knowingly shall accept or receive the use or benefit of gas, electric current, steam, water, sewage disposal, communication service or cable television service:

        a.    When such gas, electric current, steam, water, sewage disposal, communication service or cable television service should pass through a meter but has been directed therefrom; or

        b.    When such gas, electric current, steam, water, sewage disposal, communication service or cable television service shall have been obtained by diversion of same without authorization from the utility producing or providing such service.

    (b) For the purposes of this section, the presence on a meter or other property of a utility of any wire, pipe or other device whatsoever which affects the diversion of gas, electric current, steam, water, sewage disposal, communication service or cable television service without the proper measurement or registration of such service, or which shall have been installed or attached without the authorization of the utility providing such service shall be prima facie evidence of knowledge thereof on the part of the person who has custody or control of the building or portion of building to which the use or benefit of such service shall have been diverted and shall further be prima facie evidence of the intent of such person to accept or receive the use of such service.

    (c) Tampering with a utility is a class A misdemeanor.

(Code 1964, § 7.810)

     State law reference(s)--Similar provisions, RSMo. § 569.090.