Gas theft can result in suspended driver s license
The spike in gas prices has caused an increase in the number of gas skips according to Peabody police.
Police chief Jeff Pohlman said his officers have investigated four gas skips from Food Mart (former Phillips 66) in the past two weeks.
"It was only around $20 or so each," said Pohlman. "But it's definitely on the increase."
Three of the four cases were solved. Officers took the individuals involved back to the convenience store to pay for the gas. None were prosecuted.
"One thing people should know is that if they are caught and convicted of a 'gas skip' the state automatically suspends their license for a year," said Pohlman. "Not a lot of people know that.
"It may seem like a petty crime, but it can cause a real hardship for the person caught doing the stealing," he added. "This has been a problem all over the state, but now it will probably get worse."
Pohlman also reported a case of criminal damage to property at the Ampride self-service station on Ninth Street.
A pop machine was broken into between 2 and 6 a.m. Aug. 22, causing $150 damage to the machine. Forty dollars in change and $12 worth of soft drinks were stolen.
"The machine is being taken off the premises this time," Pohlman said. "They are tired of the damage and loss. They've repaired or replaced it one too many times."
A bicycle was stolen during the night Aug. 29 from in front of the residence at 410 Peabody Street.
The bike is a Blue Voltage bike with chrome pegs on the back and more than the normal amount of spokes on the wheels.
Anyone who has seen the bike or has any information about it should contact the police department at 983-2133.
