Law enforcement makes key arrest related to retail fuel theft investigation

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (FLV) – The Florida Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement arrested a suspect in Kissimmee who officials believe is connected to eight ongoing investigations of fuel theft in Central Florida.

Harold Blanco was seen on surveillance stealing fuel from the fuel pulser dispenser at a RaceTrac station, according to authorities. After law enforcement confronted Blanco, he allegedly fled the scene only to be later on arrested and put in custody.

The recent fuel theft cases arose after the same RaceTrac location began to report fuel shortages due to theft.

Blanco now faces 30 criminal charges from both the Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office.

Agricultural Commissioner Wilton Simpson expressed his support of the law enforcement officials and investigators who contributed to the effort.

“I am proud of the exceptional teamwork displayed by the Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office in apprehending this suspect, who is linked to a spree of retail fuel thefts across central Florida,” Simpson said.

He said that these criminal practices “hurt” consumers and businesses all across the state and he will continue to work “collaboratively” with law enforcement to “combat” these organized crimes.

Simpson highlighted that he was also able to work with the state legislature in order to pass increased penalties for possess, install, or or use devices that manipulate fuel dispensers.

As of July 1, new penalties will require five to 10 years of imprisonment for anyone caught with a device that alters the price of gas at the pump.