Obviously he was raising the panel up high enough so the romex would not be exposed to damage under 8'.......
Actually, it may have been a good thing. Panel cover was long gone and I'm not sure whether it would open if it were on. Putting them up high keeps the little guys wondering fingers out of them. This home is chocked full of some real "quality" work. About 10' right of this is a flying splice of some 6/3 running to a garage. No box, no tape and he tied them together with small bolts and nuts. They have been real crispy hot, too. I bid moving and replacing the service which is done. Working T&M now fixing this mess. I'll be there awhile.
electricianjeff