69-4-1102. Definitions. As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires, the following definitions apply:

(1) "Bypassing" means any act, using any means, the purpose of which is to obtain utility service without having such service pass through the authorized meter provided for measuring or registering such service.

(2) "Person" means an individual, firm, partnership, corporation, unincorporated association, or other legal or business entity or the executor, administrator, trustee, receiver, assignee, or personal representative thereof.

(3) "Tampering" means damaging, altering, adjusting, or in any manner interfering with or obstructing the operation or function of any authorized metering device provided for measuring or registering utility service.

(4) "Utility" means any public utility, municipally owned utility, or cooperative utility that provides electricity, gas, water, sewage disposal, or combination thereof, for sale to consumers.

(5) "Utility service" means the provision of electricity, gas, water, or sewer service.