A theft of gasoline from a transport van at the Diamond Learning Center in Clovis, California, has forced staff to alter routes and notify parents of delays affecting nearly 200 students with intellectual disabilities. The incident occurred Sunday evening when a suspect entered a gated parking lot and siphoned gas from one of the center’s vans.
Surveillance video released by the Diamond Learning Center captures a man carrying multiple gas containers as he accessed the lot around 5 p.m., appearing prepared to take a significant amount of fuel. Staff discovered the theft after finding oil spilled on the van’s floor and several gas cans left behind. The suspect fled the scene with a large red container.
Isaac Jimenez, senior director at the center, described the disruption caused by the theft. “It also throws off the student for the day. It’s hard to get them back, to refocus,” he said, noting the impact went beyond just replacing stolen fuel.
Clovis Police confirmed a report was filed early Monday morning, charging three misdemeanors: vehicle tampering, trespassing, and theft. The suspect reportedly climbed over or found another way through a perimeter fence to reach the secured lot. Police estimate the value of the stolen gas at approximately $40 and noted minor vehicle damage.
Although surveillance footage shows the theft in progress, police stated the video quality does not provide sufficient detail to identify the suspect, leading to the case’s suspension due to lack of leads. They classified the crime as petty theft since the value was under $900.
Officials expressed disappointment over the incident, particularly since it involved unlawful entry into a secured facility protecting vulnerable students. Police urged the public to report any information that could assist the investigation and advised drivers to take safety measures such as locking gas caps and parking in secure locations.
Jimenez issued a warning to the thief: “You got away with it once—you’re not going to get away with it again.”
Why it matters
The theft disrupted daily transportation for nearly 200 students who rely on consistent routines, highlighting the broader consequences of property crimes targeting facilities for individuals with disabilities. The incident underscores the importance of maintaining security at service centers and the challenges staff face when adapting to sudden disruptions.
Background
Gasoline thefts, while relatively uncommon, tend to increase when fuel prices rise. Facilities like the Diamond Learning Center operate transport services critical to students’ daily attendance and care, emphasizing the need for heightened security measures in such sensitive environments.
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