Man Accused Of Stealing Electricity To Run Marijuana Grow House

HOLIDAY, FL — A 63-year-old New Port Richey man has been arrested after being accused of stealing $11,980 worth of electricity to operate a marijuana grow house in Holiday.

According to Pasco County Sheriff's deputies, Pedro Julio Ruiz of Zack Drive was charged with grand theft of utility services and growing marijuana at a house at 3345 Chickadee Drive in Holiday.

Detectives said they executed a search warrant at the home after Duke Energy reported that power was being diverted to the home. Detectives said they found bedrooms had been converted into cultivation rooms. Electricity was being used to power multiple air conditions, 24 ballasts and grow lights.

Bond for Ruiz was set at $5,000.