A shocking case has emerged in Tayport, where Leslie Pirie, a 51-year-old electrician, has been convicted of orchestrating an elaborate scheme to divert electricity from his upstairs neighbors, Hugh and Tracy Torrance.
The Torrance family, facing unexpectedly steep energy bills, discovered Pirie’s deceptive setup after seeking assistance from investigators.
It was revealed during the investigation that Pirie had installed a hidden device behind a framed picture to covertly reroute electricity intended for the Torrance residence to his own home downstairs.
This unauthorized arrangement persisted for more than three years, resulting in Pirie illegally obtaining approximately £4,000 worth of electricity.
In a hearing at Dundee Sheriff Court, Pirie pleaded guilty to the charges and has been mandated to repay the entire amount in compensation.
Despite being granted over eight years to settle the debt at a rate of £40 per month, the financial impact on the Torrance family has been severe.
Speaking outside the courthouse, Mr. Torrance, a boat builder, recounted the moment they became aware of the irregularities in their energy bills and the subsequent strain it placed on their finances, necessitating their daughter to seek employment.
Mrs. Torrance, employed as a lab assistant, expressed her disappointment and disbelief over Pirie’s betrayal, noting that they had previously regarded him as a quiet and friendly neighbor.
Efforts are now underway to address Pirie’s living situation within the community, with authorities already involved prior to the court proceedings.
The incident has evidently strained relations between the neighbors and underscored the consequences of such fraudulent actions within a residential setting.
