A routine traffic stop early Monday morning led to the arrest of a California man accused of operating a multi-state diesel fuel theft operation, according to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 2:20 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 2, a DeKalb County deputy stopped a U-Haul van traveling eastbound on Highway 117 near East River Road in Mentone. During the stop, the deputy observed large tanks improperly stored in the rear of the vehicle containing approximately 600 gallons of diesel fuel.
The driver was identified as Michel Alvarez, 42, of Los Angeles, California. Authorities said Alvarez did not possess a commercial driver’s license and lacked the required documentation to transport motor vehicle fuel in Alabama.
At 3:03 a.m., DeKalb County 911 contacted the DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) duty officer due to the suspicious nature of the stop and the large quantity of hazardous materials involved. EMA coordinated with the Alabama Fusion Center and provided guidance to on-scene law enforcement to help ensure a safe resolution.
A subsequent search of the van uncovered a bag containing electrical switches, wiring, remotes, and battery packs. Investigators said the items, combined with the large amount of fuel, raised additional concerns.
The DeKalb County Drugs and Major Crimes Unit, Mentone Police Department, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to assist with the investigation.
Investigators later determined Alvarez was allegedly involved in a sophisticated diesel fuel theft scheme spanning multiple states. Authorities said the operation involved illegally accessing diesel pumps at truck stops along the East Coast, from New Jersey southward, manipulating the pumps to dispense fuel without payment.
Alvarez was arrested and charged with felony unlawful motor vehicle fuel transport, receiving stolen property in the first degree, and possession of burglary tools. The Department of Homeland Security has also been notified and is assisting with the case. Additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden praised the deputy’s actions, stating the traffic stop “uncovered a large, multi-state fuel theft operation that posed a serious threat to public safety.”
