Attorney General James Uthmeier and Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister have announced the results of Operation Van Diesel, which targeted an organized theft ring accused of stealing large amounts of diesel fuel from gas stations in at least twelve Florida counties. The authorities said the group, composed mostly of illegal immigrants, used modified vans to siphon fuel directly from storage tanks.
“Joe Biden opened our borders, sanctuary states offered incentives for illegal immigration, and they put Americans at risk,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “The majority of this group of criminal aliens were let into the country under the Biden administration, and the effects are widespread. Accountability is coming for these sanctuary policies putting Floridians at risk, which is why I also issued a criminal subpoena to the employer of the illegal alien truck driver who killed three in St Lucie County and sent a list of legal demands to Washington and California.”
“Fuel theft of this magnitude puts drivers at risk, undermines the integrity of our fuel supply, and robs businesses in our communities,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “To those who think organized crime can go undetected, let this case be a reminder: we are watching, we are working together, and we will hold you accountable.”
Investigators allege that ten people have been arrested so far in connection with the scheme. Seven are reported as illegal immigrants; six entered under federal parole programs during President Biden’s administration while one is classified as a “gotaway.” Three others hold green cards but may face revocation if convicted. Charges include RICO violations and conspiracy counts; four defendants also face money laundering charges involving over $100,000.
Authorities estimate that profits from stolen fuel reached at least $400,000 but believe actual losses could be higher. If convicted on all counts, some defendants could face up to 90 years in prison. The Florida Attorney General’s Office of Statewide Prosecution will handle these cases.
In addition to announcing arrests related to Operation Van Diesel, Attorney General Uthmeier disclosed new legal actions following a fatal crash involving Harjinder Singh—a commercial truck driver alleged to be in the country illegally—who was employed by White Hawk Carriers based in Ceres, California. Legal demands were also sent to California and Washington regarding their roles in issuing Singh’s commercial license.
On August 12, 2025, Singh allegedly made an illegal U-turn on Florida’s Turnpike near Fort Pierce in St. Lucie County. His trailer blocked traffic lanes resulting in a collision with a minivan that killed three people inside. Singh has been charged with three counts each of manslaughter and vehicular homicide; he was extradited to St. Lucie County Jail where he remains without bond pending trial.
