SCSO works with local police departments, investigating a string of diesel fuel thefts from Tampa to Charlotte County.

Over the past several months, our TAC Unit along with Venice Police Department have been investigating a string of diesel fuel thefts from Tampa to Charlotte County. Underground fuel tanks at gas stations have been targeted, and local businesses affected.

During surveillance, a white van was seen parking directly over a sealed diesel fuel tank at a gas station on Fruitville Road. The van remained stationary, while another vehicle appeared to be the lookout. It was later discovered that the suspects #PimpedTheirRide with two 55-gallon containers and a 250-gallon tank with hoses and pumps – a sophisticated system to steal fuel without having to get out of the vehicle but not sophisticated enough to evade arrest!

This case is an excellent example of information sharing and working together within our agency and other law enforcement agencies. Thank you to Venice Police Department, Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and our Aviation Unit for helping us “tank” the plan of these fuel fools!