How to Report Illegal DTE Use

If you suspect illegal DTE use, company officials have a hotline and on-line complaint form to report the matter.

Illegal use of energy comes in many forms, ranging from tampering with a utility meter to stealing copper from utility equipment. If you suspect someone is committing any type of energy theft from DTE, company officials want to know immediately. The company website provides information on how to report illegal DTE use.

Instructions

1. Contact DTE officials. From the DTE Energy home page -- DTEenergy.com, click the "Problems/safety" link, then select "Theft/fraud". Choose the "Report energy theft" link. You can either call the DTE theft hotline at 1-800-441-6698 or click "Online" in the "Report theft" section of the page to be linked to an online complaint form.

2. Provide details. Describe specifically what has occurred to lead you to suspect illegal DTE use. Provide the complete address of the suspect and where the alleged energy theft is taking place. You do not have to give your name. If you would like to be contacted, give your daytime contact number.

3. Contact law enforcement. If you do not wish to contact DTE officials directly, you can report illegal DTE use to your local law enforcement agency. Appear in person at your sheriff's office or police station and provide details of who is involved, along with the address where the alleged crime occurred. You can also phone in this complaint to a non-emergency law enforcement line. Call 911 only if you believe the illegal DTE use has put someone in immediate danger.

References

• DTE Energy: Make a Theft Report
• DTE Energy: Report Energy Theft: Meter or Equipment Tampering