Appalachian Power Co. v. Public Service Commission

MILLER, Chief Justice:

This is an appeal from a $5,000 contempt fine imposed by the Public Service Commission. The initial proceeding arose, when the Public Service Commission (Commission) served a written notice upon Appalachian Power Company (Appalachian) stating that it had violated the Commission’s Rule 4.08(l)(a) relating to termination of utility services to residential customers during the winter months. Appalachian allegedly had wrongfully terminated electrical service to a John Barnette. In its notice the Commission cited its powers contained in W.Va.Code, 24-4-3 1 and 24-4-5. 2 A…