Alleged Diesel Theft Crew Busted After Siphons Found at Lookout
Ventura County authorities have arrested four Los Angeles-area men accused of stealing diesel fuel from semi-trucks in a series of thefts dating back to August. Investigators say the group used a lookout vehicle and a Ford van equipped with tanks and pumps.
Surveillance Leads to Arrests
Detectives with the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office Headquarters station and the West County Special Enforcement Unit conducted surveillance in Thousand Oaks and other areas of the county.
During the investigation, detectives allegedly observed the driver of a GMC Sierra acting as a lookout while individuals in a Ford van siphoned diesel from a Freightliner truck parked outside a local business, according to authorities.
Four Suspects Identified
Investigators identified the suspects as Alfonso Vargas, 52; Alfonso Vargas Jr., 33; Gilbert Flores, 37; and Miguel Cruz, 38. Authorities said the four men were arrested in connection with four separate diesel thefts in and around Ventura County since August.
The Sheriff’s Office said the suspects allegedly drove throughout the county, targeting semi-trucks and removing large quantities of diesel fuel. The investigation indicated that the GMC Sierra was used as a spotter vehicle while the Ford van carried equipment for the alleged thefts.
Charges Follow Traffic Stops
Detectives conducted traffic stops on vehicles believed to have been used in the thefts before taking the four men into custody. The allegations remain subject to court proceedings.
