A Deltona man is facing multiple larceny counts after deputies say he pulled off a diesel theft spree at Circle K stations across Central Florida. Authorities allege the 40-year-old used a pickup and an auxiliary tank to siphon hundreds of gallons of fuel, and say license-plate reader data helped them zero in on him at a DeLand Circle K as investigators continue to probe related reports.
Fuel Losses Logged At Deltona Circle K
According to Volusia County’s daily activity log, staff at the Circle K on Howland Boulevard reported unexplained drops in diesel inventory, including a 62-gallon loss on July 6 and a 130-gallon loss last Sunday. The report lists the Deltona location, notes that the two shortages total about $1,017, and states that the case is active, according to the Volusia Sheriff's Office.
License-Plate Readers Lead Deputies To DeLand Stop
Investigators reviewing surveillance video say the same white Ram 2500 appeared repeatedly at diesel pumps, prompting detectives to use license-plate reader data to trace the truck to its registered owner, identified as Yusniel Lara, 40, of Deltona. DeLand officers detained the pickup after an LPR alert and held Lara at a Circle K while Volusia detectives responded.
Detectives reported finding a large magnet on the driver’s seat, an auxiliary fuel tank in the bed of the truck with its cap open, and both a pry tool and a pried-off pump access panel, evidence investigators say matches known diesel-siphoning schemes. They also said the truck was entered into the system as a felony vehicle, similar thefts had been reported in Sanford and Ocala, and Lara faces multiple larceny counts with additional charges possible, as reported by WKMG ClickOrlando.
Investigation Still Active
The investigation remains active, and deputies have asked anyone with information to contact the sheriff’s office. The Volusia County daily log lists non-emergency phone numbers and local dispatch contacts for tips, according to the Volusia Sheriff's Office.
