DEKALB CO., Ala. (WAFF) - A California man was arrested in DeKalb County after being found with over 600 gallons of diesel fuel in a U-Haul truck.
On Monday, a DeKalb County deputy pulled over 42-year-old Michael Alvarez of Los Angeles, California, who was driving a U-HAUL van on Hwy. 117 in Mentone.
During the stop, the deputy noticed the driver was hauling large tanks containing 600 gallons of diesel fuel stowed improperly in the back of the van.
During a search of the van, a bag containing electrical switches, wiring, remotes and battery packs was found, which raised suspicions when coupled with such a large amount of field in proximity.
It was discovered that Alvarez did not have a CDL or any proper paperwork or documentation required to haul fuel in Alabama.
After multiple other law enforcement agencies responded to the scene, investigators learned that Alvarez was conducting a “sophisticated multi-state diesel fuel theft which consisted of illegally hijacking diesel pumps at truck stops across the country.”
Alvarez allegedly traveled from New Jersey down the East Coast, gaining access to an unknown number of fuel pumps to “scam” the pumps into dispensing fuel without paying.
Alvarez was arrested and charged with Felony Unlawful Motor Vehicle Fuel Transport, Receiving Stolen Property - 1st Degree and Possession of Burglary Tools.
Officials say the Department of Homeland Security was notified and are assiting in this case.
This is an ongoing investigation and other charges are possible.
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