Neighbors Stealing Electricity?

[Christopher Malone]

I visited a property in Chicago that I am set to close on in a couple of weeks to get some measurements. I walked around to the backyard and discovered an orange power cord going from the outside outlet, under the fence, over into the neighbors back door. I unplugged it and went back into the house to lock up with the intentions of going next door and introducing myself. When I walked back outside, the cord was mysteriously gone...  I knocked on the door and ringed the door bell, but no one answered. The electricity isn't in my name as of yet, but the thought that they may continue to do this while the property is vacant is getting to me, and also the curiosity of why they would be doing it. 

Has anyone had experience with this, and if so, how did you prevent it? My best idea is to switch off all of the breakers before leaving each day.  Thanks!

[Wayne Brooks]

Yeah, but for the costs of a little electricity during rehab you may have a watchdog.