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gas thefts increasing....



Lawd.... look how gas prices sending people nuh.....


At least 10 states have taken legislative action to increase penalties for gasoline theft, a crime that has been increasing with the rise of U.S. gas prices.

The average price for a gallon of gas in the United States is $2.21, making fuel a more attractive target for pump-and-run thieves, USA Today reported. The newspaper said such thefts cost retailers about $234 million in 2004, which was more than double the 2003 figure. The amount is expected to rise against in 2005.

To stem the rash of gas thefts, states have been toughening laws regarding stealing fuel. Iowa, Minnesota and Oregon have enacted laws that allow for driver's license suspensions for pump-and-run convictions. Oklahoma bumped the maximum penalty for such crimes to $500 plus 60 days in jail and Virginia, effective Friday, boosts its fine for drive-aways from $100 to $250, USA Today said.

Other states are moving to require pre-payment for gas the law.

http://news.webindia123.com/news/sho...3272&cat=World