Traffic Stop in Mentone Uncovers Multi-State Diesel Fuel Theft Operation
FORT PAYNE, Ala. — A routine traffic stop in northern DeKalb County early Monday morning led to the arrest of a California man and the discovery of what authorities describe as a sophisticated, multi-state diesel fuel theft operation.
According to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy stopped a U-Haul van traveling eastbound on Highway 117 near East River Road in Mentone at approximately 2:20 a.m. on February 2. During the stop, the deputy observed large tanks containing an estimated 600 gallons of diesel fuel improperly stored in the rear of the vehicle.
The driver was identified as Michel Alvarez, 42, of Los Angeles, California. Investigators determined Alvarez did not possess a commercial driver’s license and lacked the required permits and documentation to legally transport motor vehicle fuel in the state of Alabama.
A search of the vehicle revealed a bag containing electrical switches, wiring, remotes, and battery packs. The presence of the equipment, combined with the large quantity of diesel fuel, raised further concerns and prompted additional agencies to be notified. 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 learned Alvarez was allegedly involved in a multi-state diesel fuel theft scheme that involved illegally accessing diesel pumps at truck stops across the country. Authorities said Alvarez traveled from New Jersey down the East Coast, using electronic devices to manipulate fuel pumps into dispensing diesel fuel without payment.
At the conclusion of the initial investigation, 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 ongoing investigation. Additional charges may be pending.
DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden praised the deputy’s actions, stating the stop prevented a potentially dangerous situation.
“This traffic stop uncovered a large, multi-state fuel theft operation that posed a serious threat to public safety,” Welden said. “Because of the deputy’s attention to detail, a dangerous situation was prevented and illegal activity at truck stops across the country was disrupted.”
The investigation remains ongoing.
https://weisradio.com/2026/01/21/sex-offender-taken-into-custody-in-dekalb-county/
https://weisradio.com/2026/01/15/two-u-s-marshals-service-fugitives-arrested-in-dekalb-county/
https://weisradio.com/2025/12/29/officer-involved-shooting-in-dekalb-county-saturday/
