You need a voltmeter. I don't have the electrical schematic, so I can't direct you from here without just "guessing" about the system. I am not sure if the system has a low pressure switch or not. You really need to check for voltage or not to the compressor in order to trouble shoot it. Test light at Harbour frieght is ok instead of a voltmeter.If you have power at the connector, then it's the clutch, if not it's electrical (that's my suspect). There will be a relay for the ac under the hood, I'd swap that with horn relay (example), see if that does it. There is a reason you don't "hotwire" things, this stopped after that? If so, you may get lucky with it being just an electrical issue.

 

HF sells a $ 10 Volt Ohm Meter that will work for this .

Unplug the cable that goes to the A/C compressor clutch . With the A/C turned on , bery carefully check to see if you have 12 VDC at that cable / connector .

BEWARE of rotating parts and the serpentine belt .

God bless
Wyr