Tom Selleck has been accused of stealing water by the Calleguas Municipal Water District, CNN reports. The Hollywood star, famous for portraying Monica Geller’s love interest “Richard” in the television series Friends — not to mention his work as the leading role in Magnum P.I. — has reached a “tentative settlement” with the District which has yet to be approved.
The complaint was filed against Selleck and his wife Jillie after they reportedly stole water from the Thousand Oaks district more than a dozen times. The residence at the heart of the lawsuit is a ranch owned by the couple, which is located in a different district.
Selleck continued to steal water from the hydrant despite receiving two cease-and-desist letters. A private investigator was hired by the district to investigate matters and as a result, the actor now owes $20,000 to the district, if the amount is agreed upon by all parties involved in the matter.
Selleck’s luxurious ranch contains its own avocado farm and houses more than 60 acres.
The news comes at a time when California is in the midst of a severe drought and locals are being urged not to waste water. The Selleck’s have been publicly shamed on Twitter where the hashtag #DraughtShaming has been trending for some time now.
The state of California is currently encouraging people to tattle on water wasters via social media. Other stars alleged to be wasting water include Kim Kardashian and Barbra Streisand.
Selleck and fellow stars are not the only allegedly guilty parties, as the Lupin Lodge nudist camp, among others, has been reported for water wastage. California is currently experiencing its fourth consecutive summer drought and as Mercury News reports, instances of water theft have become commonplace.
Those who are caught stealing water are subject to a $1,000 fine but no criminal charges will be pressed.
Selleck has not commented on the matter and calls as well as e-mails directed to his publicists have thus far been routinely declined.
California natives are advised to use water sparingly, repair or replace dripping faucets, check for leaks and to opt for energy efficient appliances. Key areas of water wastage include kitchens and bathrooms. Subsequently, locals are advised to be aware of their water usage and to abstain when possible.
