Four Arrested in Florida Diesel Theft Ring Using Pump Manipulation

Key Details Four suspects were charged in Florida on March 10, 2026, in connection with an organized diesel fuel theft operation. Elieser Perez, Sergio Machin, Sofiel Ferino, and Sediel Carrazana face multiple felony counts including Organized Fraud, Retail Fuel Theft by Physically Tampering with a Fuel Dispenser, and Grand Theft. How They Operated The suspects targeted fuel pumps in Santa Rosa County by using magnets to manipulate fuel pump solenoids. They opened pump panels to dispense diesel without payment and filled multiple semi-truck tanks using this method. Surveillance footage captured the suspects tampering with pumps and stealing fuel. Investigation The Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement used license plate records, prior citations, and business records to identify and link all four suspects to the diesel theft incidents. The scheme caused significant financial losses to fuel retailers and pump operators. Why It Matters This case highlights growing organized fuel theft targeting the trucking industry. Drivers should remain vigilant about fuel pump security and report suspicious activity at truck stops and fuel stations.