Ten arrested for stealing over 185K gallons of diesel, reselling fuel at trucking yards for discount, Florida sheriff says

A large-scale diesel theft ring based in Florida was dismantled following months of investigation, police said.

On September 4, 2025, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister announced that ten people have been arrested following an investigation dubbed “Operation Van Diesel.”

The investigation was launched in March 2025 after officials noticed “a trend of fuel thefts in Hillsborough County.”

The investigation widened to include fuel thefts taking place in Orlando, Jacksonville, and multiple other jurisdictions in Florida.

“Through investigative means, detectives learned the suspects used modified Dodge and Chrysler minivans equipped with 500-gallon tanks, pumps, hidden compartments, and cut-through floorboards to siphon diesel fuel directly from underground gas station tanks. In minutes, they could steal hundreds of gallons of diesel. The stolen fuel was then transported to trucking yards and resold at a discounted rate,” Chronister said.

In total, the investigation uncovered over 350 thefts across multiple counties, totaling more than 185,000 gallons of stolen diesel fuel worth an estimated $650,000 from retailers including Racetrac and Speedway/7-Eleven. 

As part of “Operation Van Diesel,” investigators secured 103 search warrants, 41 subpoenas, and 11 arrest warrants.

On August 5, 2025, operations were executed by multiple law enforcement agencies at several locations, resulting in 9 arrests and 19 vehicles seized, and more than 30,000 gallons of diesel fuel recovered, valued at more than $100,000.

A total of 10 people have been arrested in connection with the diesel fuel thefts as of September 4. These people face RICO violations and other charges.

“Fuel theft of this magnitude puts drivers at risk, undermines the integrity of our fuel supply, and robs businesses in our communities,” said Chronister. “To those who think organized crime can go undetected, let this case be a reminder: we are watching, we are working together, and we will hold you accountable.”

The investigation is ongoing.

You can see video highlights from the investigation below.