A Deltona man was arrested after being discovered stealing diesel from Circle K gas stations across the area, according to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office.
According to deputies, Yusniel Lara, 40, is charged with multiple larceny counts in connection with fuel thefts reported at Circle K stores in Deltona and DeLand.
These stores reported occurrences on July 6 and 12, with an estimated 300 gallons of fuel stolen.
Surveillance video from the stations reportedly revealed the same suspect vehicle every time: a white Ram 2500 pickup. The truck and its registered owner, Lara, were identified by detectives using data from a license plate reader, according to officials.
Meanwhile, identical fuel thefts were reported in Sanford and Ocala, and authorities believe Lara’s truck was flagged as a crime vehicle.
A license plate scanner in DeLand notified officers of the truck’s tag on Wednesday, according to police. DeLand officers found the truck near the Circle K, where thefts had previously been reported, and kept Lara while Volusia Sheriff’s Office investigators investigated.
Detectives say they discovered a large magnet on the driver’s seat, which is commonly used in diesel thefts from pumps.
In the truck bed, detectives discovered a big auxiliary fuel tank with the cap open but not yet full.
Police further report that an access panel on the pump had been wrenched off, and a pry tool was discovered inside the driver’s door compartment.
Authorities say more charges are possible as other related cases are investigated.
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