BOURNE, MA — Two men from Yonkers, New York, were arrested in connection with a string of used cooking oil thefts from local businesses, Bourne Police announced.
The arrests were part of “Operation Midnight Oil”, a surveillance initiative launched in response to rising reports of used cooking oil theft across the region. The oil, which can be resold for the production of renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, is often targeted due to its resale value.
Late Monday night, Gilberto Rodriguez, 35, and Oliver Cruz, 36, were apprehended by patrol officers and detectives after allegedly stealing oil from a business on Main Street.
Police say the two are suspected of being involved in similar thefts across Massachusetts, and the investigation is ongoing. Additional charges may be filed as more evidence is collected.
Rodriguez and Cruz have been charged with:
Breaking and Entering into a Depository
Larceny Under $1200
Conspiracy
Authorities are urging other businesses that may have been affected to come forward as they continue the investigation.
