Number Of Fuel Thefts On The Rise
ST. CHARLES, Ill. (WBBM) - As gas prices continue to increase, so do reports of stolen fuel.
Since March 14, in west suburban St. Charles, one unlucky SUV owner has been hit twice by siphoners -- the second time right after he gassed up. Both times the SUV was parked at the end of a driveway. Another St. Charles man reported 22 gallons stolen from his Ford Expedition, again parked at the end of a driveway. In addition, St. Charles Police Sgt. Roger Anderson said two diesel-powered vehicles have had more than 50 gallons apiece siphoned.
"Both were from the same business," he said.
Anderson said it is not a first in St. Charles.
"We have seen it before when prices spike," he said. "It's still somewhat rare."
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Anderson said it has been far more common to see motorists try to drive off without paying at gas stations. But he said that now, most gas stations require pre-payment.
If there is a common thread to the various thefts, it's that the thefts occurred late at night to vehicles that were readily accessible. Police said parking cars in a garage helps deter siphoners, as buying a locking gas cap and parking so that the tank is in a well-lit area, if left outside. But Anderson said the best idea of all is that if you hear or see something that doesn't look right -- call police.
