A Citrus Heights woman discovered a man living in her backyard shed on Sunday, using her utilities. She called 9-1-1, and officers found the man inside the shed.
Police say they set up a perimeter around the yard, tried to talk the man into coming out, then ultimately went inside the shed and detained him without anyone getting hurt.
According to the Citrus Heights Police Department, officers made multiple announcements attempting to coax him out, no luck. Not even close. Citrus Heights Police Department said they later entered the structure, took the man into custody, and transported him to be booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail.
What Officers Say They Found
The Citrus Heights Police Department reported that the man had tapped into the property’s utilities anrevealsd was living in the shed. He is on probation and has multiple prior arrests.
Unauthorized Utility Hookups Can Be Charged
California law treats unauthorized hookups to electricity, water or gas as a crime under Penal Code §498, which covers diverting, tampering with or connecting to utility services without permission. CalCriminalDefenseLawyers.com notes that, depending on the value of the services and a suspect’s record, such cases can be filed as misdemeanors or felonies, with potential penalties that include jail time and restitution.
How Neighbors Should Report It
The department reminded residents to report suspicious activity, such as someone in a yard or shed that isn’t theirs. For emergencies, call 9-1-1. Non-emergencies can be reported via Citrus Heights’ non-emergency dispatch line or online at CitrusHeights.net.
Recent police logs show an increase in calls related to homelessness and quality-of-life concerns, which may explain rapid responses to strangers in yards. The Citrus Heights Sentinel publishes weekly logs showing incidents officers respond to.
Police say the suspect from Sunday’s shed incident remains in custody. The Citrus Heights Police Department urges neighbors to report unusual activity in yards, garages, or sheds. The man’s name was not released.
