Authorities in California have arrested a 55-year-old man following a two-month investigation into a string of diesel fuel thefts targeting local farms. Investigators believe the suspect was connected to the disappearance of more than 500 gallons of tax-exempt agricultural diesel.
The thefts were reported across Merced and Madera counties, where fuel is essential for tractors, harvest equipment, irrigation systems, and other machinery. Losing hundreds of gallons can quickly bring farming operations to a halt, especially for smaller businesses working with tight schedules and margins.
According to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office, detectives served multiple search warrants during the investigation before arresting Andrew Roggero of El Nido on July 28, 2026. The case was handled with assistance from the Madera County Sheriff’s Office.
The investigation remains active, and authorities have warned that additional arrests or charges could follow. Officials are also asking anyone with information about the thefts to contact the Sheriff’s Office.
More Than 500 Gallons Reported Stolen
The fuel involved was red-dyed diesel, a tax-exempt product intended for off-road agricultural and industrial equipment. The dye helps authorities distinguish it from regular on-road diesel, since using untaxed fuel in highway vehicles can lead to penalties.
Stealing more than 500 gallons would require a substantial amount of equipment and storage capacity. A theft of that size would likely involve tanks, pumps, trailers, or repeated visits rather than a few ordinary fuel containers.
The Sheriff’s Office has not released details about how the diesel was allegedly removed or where it was stored. Investigators also have not said whether they believe Roggero acted alone.
Fuel Theft Can Stop A Farm In Its Tracks
The financial loss is only part of the damage caused by agricultural fuel theft. A farmer who discovers an empty tank may be unable to operate tractors or other machinery until replacement fuel arrives.
That interruption can be especially costly during planting, irrigation, or harvest periods when timing matters. Even a short delay can affect labor schedules, crop quality, and the ability to complete work before weather conditions change.
The Merced County Sheriff’s Office said these thefts have a direct impact on farmers and can disrupt critical agricultural operations. The agency emphasized that protecting the region’s farming community remains a priority.
Red Diesel Is Cheaper, But Still Valuable
Agricultural diesel generally costs less than highway diesel because it is exempt from certain road-use taxes. That discount does not make it inexpensive, particularly in California, where fuel prices remain among the highest in the country.
At roughly 500 gallons, the stolen fuel could still represent several thousand dollars in direct losses. The cost rises further when downtime, emergency fuel deliveries, and potential damage to tanks or pumps are included.
For small and family-run farms, those losses can be difficult to absorb. Unlike large agricultural companies, smaller operations may not have backup fuel supplies or spare equipment ready to keep work moving.
Investigation Could Lead To More Charges
Detectives from both Merced and Madera counties worked together to identify the suspect and build the case. Roggero was arrested in connection with the thefts, although the Sheriff’s Office has not yet released a complete list of charges or disclosed all evidence collected during the searches.
Authorities stressed that the investigation is not over. Additional suspects, charges, or related theft cases may be identified as detectives continue reviewing evidence.
Anyone with information has been encouraged to contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office Detectives Bureau at 209.385.7472, or you can leave an anonymous tip at the Sheriff’s Office tip line at 209.385.7547 or SheriffTips@countyofmerced.com.
A Costly Crime For Working Farms
Stealing fuel may seem less dramatic than taking machinery or vehicles, but the consequences can be severe for the people who depend on it every day. Diesel is the lifeblood of many agricultural operations, and removing it can shut down work almost immediately.
The arrest may provide some relief to farmers affected by the thefts, although the full scope of the case is still being determined. For now, authorities are making it clear that large-scale fuel theft from local farms will be treated as a serious crime.