NEWFIELD, NJ — A Gloucester County-based power washing company has been charged with theft after an investigation revealed it had been using fire hydrants throughout the borough to fill its equipment without authorization.
Franklin Township detectives initiated the investigation after receiving a report from the Newfield Borough Department of Public Works regarding the suspected theft.
During the course of the investigation, detectives obtained surveillance footage from nearby businesses that placed the company’s equipment in the area at the time of the incidents.
Investigators determined that the company’s owner had directed employees to access fire hydrants whenever a proper water hookup was unavailable at job sites.
As a result, the owner was charged on a complaint summons with theft, criminal mischief, and violations of borough ordinances.
He was released pending a municipal court appearance.
In the State of New Jersey, unauthorized access to fire hydrants is considered a disorderly person offense and can result in significant damage to the water system, as well as pose risks to the public water supply.
