Shreveport Man Charged With Electricity Theft
Shane Starret faces two counts of theft related to diverted power service at a local home.
Updated on Sept. 25, 2026 in Property Crime
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Authorities have charged 51-year-old Shane Starret with two counts of theft for illegally stealing electrical service. The charges stem from unauthorized utility connections identified at a residence in the 3400 block of Seminole Drive.
Why it matters
The illegal diversion of power creates significant financial burdens for utility providers and poses safety risks. Southwestern Electric Power Company reported losses exceeding $5,000 as a result of these incidents.
Shane Starret faces two theft counts following an investigation into illegal electrical connections. He was already incarcerated at the Caddo Correctional Center when the new charges were issued via warrant.
The players
Shane Starret
He is a 51-year-old individual currently facing two counts of theft related to utility service diversion.
Southwestern Electric Power Company
This is a regional utility provider that reported over $5,000 in losses due to the unauthorized electrical connections.
Caddo Correctional Center
This facility is where the suspect was already being held when detectives filed the additional theft charges.
The details
Detectives discovered cables running directly from a power pole to a residence that lacked active electrical service. Investigators also identified electrical equipment outside the home that matched items reported by the utility company.
Timeline
Southwestern Electric Power Company reported the second theft on September 2, 2026.
An arrest warrant for Shane Starret was issued on September 24, 2026.
Legal Context
This case follows the enforcement patterns established by the Louisiana Revised Statutes regarding theft of utility services, which criminalizes the diversion of electricity. Such prosecutions serve as a deterrent against the unauthorized bypassing of utility meters.
Local residents should be aware that unauthorized electrical connections can compromise neighborhood power grid stability. Any suspicious utility modifications should be reported to the provider to prevent potential safety hazards.
The takeaway
Illegal electricity theft often triggers felony charges due to the cumulative financial impact on service providers. Utility customers are reminded that all power connections must be formally established and maintained by licensed professionals.
Further reading
For more information on local investigations, visit the Property Crime section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTALnews.
Live Poll
Do you believe utility companies should do more to prevent power theft in your community?
