Two truck drivers have been arrested in connection with a fuel theft operation that targeted a Love’s Travel Stop in Milton, Florida.
According to investigators with the Florida Office of Agriculture Law Enforcement (OALE), Jesus E. Garcia and Ever Sierra used bolt cutters to break into fuel pumps before tampering with their internal mechanisms to siphon off nearly 500 gallons of diesel. The theft resulted in approximately $3,500 in losses.
Security footage captured the suspects in action, leading to their arrests in Polk and Broward counties. Both men now face felony charges for fuel theft and fraud, with prosecution pending in Santa Rosa County’s First Judicial Circuit.
The case comes amid growing concerns about fuel theft in the state. Florida lawmakers, spurred by media investigations, recently passed legislation elevating the use of pump-manipulating devices to a second- or third-degree felony.
Authorities say this case exemplifies the increasing sophistication of fuel-related crimes and serves as a reminder to gas station operators to tighten security protocols.
