Electricity powers our homes every day. We flick a switch, plug in a charger, turn on the heating, and rarely give it a second thought.
However, when electricity is interfered with – through meter tampering, bypassing or illegal and unsafe connections – the danger increases significantly.
The death of 18-year-old Leah Casson in a house fire in North Shields is a devastating reminder of how serious that danger can be. In this shocking case, Leah’s own mother and brother have since appeared in court charged with manslaughter and offences relating to the abstraction of electricity.
The Leah Casson court case highlights a stark reality: electricity theft can happen behind closed doors, and the consequences can be fatal.
The Incident
Leah Casson died in a fire at her home in Vicarage Street, North Shields, North Tyneside, in the early hours of 16 January 2023.
Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the house fire and the cause of Leah’s death.
The investigation has since led to multiple criminal charges.
What are the Legal Charges?
Leah Casson’s mother, Danielle Johnson, 43, and Leah’s brother, Louis Casson, 19, appeared at North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on 8 January.
Louis Casson is charged with manslaughter and one count of abstracting electricity. Danielle Johnson is charged with manslaughter and two counts of abstracting electricity.
Co-accused Craig Watson, 42, appeared via a video link. He is charged with manslaughter and two counts of abstracting electricity.
Calvin Smith, 37, did not enter pleas to the two charges of abstracting electricity that he faces. He is not charged in relation to Leah’s death.
All four defendants were granted unconditional bail to appear at Newcastle Crown Court on 10 February.
During Ms Johnson and Mr Casson’s hearing, Anne Barker, prosecuting, described the case as "really tragic." She told the court that the electricity abstraction charges faced by Mr Smith are “intrinsically linked” to the manslaughter case, despite him not being charged with causing Leah’s death.
Under UK law, manslaughter applies where a person unlawfully causes the death of another but without the intent required for murder. It can arise where someone’s actions were grossly negligent given the risk of death, where a dangerous unlawful act results in death, or where a partial defence reduces what would otherwise be murder to manslaughter.
Abstracting electricity is a criminal offence under Section 13 of the Theft Act 1968. It covers the dishonest use of electricity without due authority, or dishonestly causing electricity to be wasted or diverted – including tampering with meters or making illegal connections. It carries penalties at the Crown Court of up to five years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.
Tampering with the electricity meter or its connections can leave switches or appliances ‘live’ to the touch, or make them overheat or malfunction, risking shocks and burns to anyone using them. Exposed wires and loose connections can get so hot that they start fires, putting homes, families and neighbouring properties in danger.
Public & Police Response
Northumbria Police initially treated the fire as arson. At the time, Leah Casson’s loved ones paid tribute, describing her as “an outgoing, bubbly young woman who we loved so much and can’t believe [is] gone.”
Electricity theft is not a victimless crime. It puts innocent lives like Leah’s at risk. The Leah Casson court case shows how meter tampering can have irreversible consequences, and why electricity theft remains a serious public safety issue.
If you are struggling with energy bills, don’t be tempted to tamper with your meter or wiring. It may feel like a solution, but it is illegal, extremely dangerous, and can put your own family – and your neighbours – at serious risk.
Support is available, and there are safer ways to seek help. Learn more about support schemes, discounts and advice here.
The best way to protect your loved ones and community is to know the signs of electricity theft.
If you suspect electricity theft, speak up.
Report it 100% anonymously to Stay Energy Safe on 0800 023 2777 or via our online form.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Your information could prevent another tragedy.