The recent rise in the price of crude oil has resulted in the corresponding skyrocketing prices of gasoline. In turn, this has lead to an increase in the incidences of gasoline theft. It can happen in any number of ways, including not paying at the pump… oh yeah, they fill up their tank alright, but race right on out of the lot, leaving the cashier coughing from the exhaust in their wake. This crime has even got its own name, it’s called the “gas and dash.”
But more often, and considerably worse, though, is the theft of gasoline from your own vehicle. When it costs sometimes upwards of $80 just to fill your gas tank… well, that’s not just a misdemeanor, it should be considered an outright felony! In fact, many states are now beefing up their penalties for anyone convicted of gas theft, and it’s not just higher monetary fines but stronger punitive damages – witness the Maryland woman who was ordered by the court to wear a signboard which told of her conviction for gasoline theft, and parade in front of the gas station from which she stole. The 21st Century version of the Scarlet Letter!
You can protect yourself from becoming a victim of gasoline theft, with a few common sense tips, combined with the purchase of a locking gas cap – that is, if you can find one, they are selling out faster than the Wii.