State lawmakers looking at bigger fines for gasoline thieves

Pump pirates beware, the state of Oklahoma is cracking down on gas thieves. A new law is in the works that would make crooks pay a stiffer penalty for filling up and driving off. <br/><br/>News on 6

Thursday, March 24th 2005, 11:09 am

By: News On 6

Pump pirates beware, the state of Oklahoma is cracking down on gas thieves. A new law is in the works that would make crooks pay a stiffer penalty for filling up and driving off.

News on 6 reporter Heather Lewin says it is a constant concern for gas station owners that increases every time the price jumps. State Senate bill 644 would push the penalty for driving off without paying, up to a $500 fine. Violators also could get up to 60 days in jail.

Retailers say just one drive off eats up a major portion of the day's profits. They'd like to see crooks end up paying after all. Gas station owner Wanda Batman: "There hasn't been I don't think as much accountability, so perhaps this house bill will make the penalties stiff enough so that people will think twice."

The state House is set to vote on the bill in about two weeks. if it passes the law would go into effect November 1st.