Gas Thieves Do Some Damage
By: Danielle Todesco
Updated: June 11, 2008
With gas prices soaring, Lubbock police say they're seeing a major increase in gas thefts. But the thieves aren't stealing from gas stations, they're stealing from other drivers.
Police say in the last 3 months they've seen about 50 cases of thieves puncturing the gas tanks of trucks or vans and draining the gas into their own containers. They say there is no fool-proof way to make sure you don't become a victim but they do have a few tips.
Sgt. Mark Watkins, LPD:
"If you have a garage it's a good idea to put a vehicle in there or a locked area or use a gas cap locks if at all possible or if you can park your car in a well lit area."
They're also asking people to call them if you ever see people walking around late at night with gas cans. If you're caught stealing gas from another car you can face charges of vehicle burglary. It's a Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year in jail.
