Sec. 17-21. Obstructing service meters. A person commits obstructing service meters when he or she knowingly, and, with the intent to defraud, tampers with, alters, obstructs or prevents the action of a meter, register, or other counting device that is a part of a mechanical or electrical machine, equipment, or device that measures service, without the consent of the owner of the machine, equipment, or device. A violation of this Section is a Class B misdemeanor.
Offense Class & Sentencing ScopeClass A Misdemeanor
Up to 364 days county jail · Fine up to $2,500
Court Appearance MandateRelease on Notice (No Mandate)
Personal appearance is not mandatory under Rule 551 by default. The citation may be satisfied by written appearance, pre-set administrative payment, or mail-in notice unless aggravated circumstances apply.
Presumptive Pretrial Release: This offense is non-detainable under 725 ILCS 5/110-6.1. The defendant is entitled to release on personal recognizance with non-monetary conditions unless charged with a subsequent detainable violation.
Secretary of State License SanctionStandard Administrative Protocol
No automatic driver's license suspension or mandatory revocation is triggered by this offense code alone upon citation.
Illinois General Assembly Statutory Text (Verbatim)
Source: ilga.gov
Sec. 17-21. Obstructing service meters. A person commits obstructing service meters when he or she knowingly, and, with the intent to defraud, tampers with, alters, obstructs or prevents the action of a meter, register, or other counting device that is a part of a mechanical or electrical machine, equipment, or device that measures service, without the consent of the owner of the machine, equipment, or device. A violation of this Section is a Class B misdemeanor.