An El Paso Fire Department employee allegedly took fuel from an EPFD vehicle to put into his personal vehicles, according to the El Paso County Constable’s Office, Precinct 4.
According to a news release issued Wednesday, Oscar Maldonado, 51, removed the fuel from various City of El Paso fuel pump sites. He was arrested on Monday and accused of theft and misuse of his official authority.
The constable’s office stated that Maldonado’s neighbour reported the alleged gasoline theft.
Because the charges constituted possible public corruption offences, the constable’s office sought assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety.
An enquiry turned up video footage of Maldonado reportedly loading five-gallon fuel containers into numerous take-home vehicles with EPFD emblems, according to officials.
According to records, videos show Maldonado reportedly distributing fuel into the automobiles of his family at his house in Anthony, New Mexico. The fuel was also purportedly dispensed by his wife or daughter.
EPFD and the City of El Paso assisted in the discovery of further tapes showing Maldonado allegedly using his fuel pump employee access to dispense city-purchased fuel intended for city cars. He allegedly utilised fuel containers to fuel his personal vehicles. The constable’s office stated that Maldonado’s activities were intentional and undertaken for the personal gain of himself and his family. “Maldonado’s employment with the El Paso Fire Department granted him access to the fuel purchased by the City of El Paso for use by the City of El Paso for official governmental purposes.”
Authorities booked Maldonado into the El Paso County Detention Facility on a $4,000 bond.
The city of El Paso released the following statement:
“The El Paso Fire Department (EPFD) was notified that a civilian employee was the subject of a criminal investigation involving allegations related to theft of City property. The employee was placed on administrative leave pending the investigation.
On September 1, 2026, the EPFD was notified that the employee had been arrested in connection with the investigation. The EPFD is cooperating fully with the investigating agencies. As this remains an active criminal proceeding, the Department will not comment further.
The EPFD remains committed to integrity, accountability, transparency, and professionalism and has taken appropriate action consistent with applicable laws and policies.”
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