MILL CREEK, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Mill Creek resident, Crystal Overbaugh, has been arrested and charged with water utility theft after allegedly reconnecting her water service without authorization and using approximately 94,801 gallons of water over the past year.
According to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, water services to Overbaugh’s residence were disconnected in November 2023 due to non-payment.
On December 12, 2024, a town official discovered that the water meter had been tampered with—the lock was cut, and the meter was running.
The following day, the official found the lock cut again after it had been replaced, prompting a call to law enforcement.
Deputy Pingley responded to the call and observed the water meter reading had increased from 107,396 at the time of disconnection to 202,177, indicating unauthorized usage.
Tools, including a hammer and pliers, were found near the meter. Overbaugh claimed she was unaware of the tampering and did not believe her name was on the account.
Town records confirmed Overbaugh as the account holder, with the unauthorized water usage valued at approximately $1,599.78, excluding taxes and additional charges.
A warrant for her arrest was issued on December 20, 2024. She was taken into custody on December 28, 2024, and transported to Tygart Valley Regional Jail.
Overbaugh faces charges of water utility theft, concluding the investigation.
