A father and son truck driving team from Florida were charged with stealing a large volume of diesel fuel from a South Carolina gas station, authorities said.
The details: Juan Casanova-Brito, 54, and his son, Carlos Casanova-Sanchez, 26, were caught in Orangeburg on February 7 by sheriff's deputies following a tip about fuel theft at a 7-11 on Five Chop Road.
- The trucker duo reportedly altered the fuel pump to dispense more diesel than the price indicated - a scheme that has been used to steal over 1,500 gallons of fuel across Virginia and South Carolina since November.
Charges: They're facing multiple counts, including criminal conspiracy and breaking into motor vehicle or tanks, and may face additional charges as investigations in other jurisdictions progress.
Law enforcement's reaction: "This was quick work by my deputies for making these arrests," Orangeburg County Sheriff Leroy Ravenell commented, noting the apprehension was narrowly achieved just before the perpetrators could have fled, according to WCBD News 2.
Why it matters: Fuel thefts like these are a significant concern for the trucking community as they not only represent criminal activity, but they also lead to heightened scrutiny and challenges for legitimate drivers.
Orangeburg sheriff's office is reaching out to other agencies for possible links to additional crimes by the arrested duo. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and cooperation among law enforcement in tackling such multi-state criminal operations.
Both truck drivers are currently detained and awaiting further legal proceedings. The Orangeburg County Sheriff's Office continues its collaborative effort with other states to thoroughly investigate the extent of the thefts.