Two Men Arrested for Cooking Oil Theft
Evansville police apprehended two suspects found with hundreds of gallons of oil in a van.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Financial Crime
Evansville police arrested Roelmis Pozo Turcaz and Jonatan Pozo Wilson for organized theft after they allegedly targeted a local Rally's restaurant. Officers discovered hundreds of gallons of oil inside a white van connected to the pair.
Why it matters
The arrest highlights an uptick in reports involving the theft of used cooking oil from local business establishments. Police are currently investigating whether these incidents are linked to a wider pattern of commercial theft in the area.
Roelmis Pozo Turcaz and Jonatan Pozo Wilson are formally charged with organized theft following their arrest. The investigation remains active as authorities process the evidence found within the suspects' vehicle.
The players
Roelmis Pozo Turcaz
He is one of two suspects taken into custody by Evansville police following the alleged theft of cooking oil.
Jonatan Pozo Wilson
He is one of two suspects apprehended by law enforcement officers and charged with organized theft.
Evansville Police
This local department is the primary agency responsible for the investigation and the subsequent arrests of the suspects.
The details
Employees at the Rally's restaurant alerted authorities when the suspects attempted to collect oil using methods that did not match standard service procedures. Officers intercepted the men at approximately 2 a.m. and recovered containers filled with the stolen product.
Timeline
Police received the report of the theft at 2:00 a.m. on September 29, 2026.
Legal Context
This incident follows a pattern set by the documented national trend of thieves targeting restaurants for their waste oil, which has become a lucrative commodity for biofuel production. Law enforcement agencies in the region are increasingly monitoring businesses to combat these organized property crimes.
Local business owners in Evansville may consider increasing security around outdoor grease storage areas to deter potential theft. Residents should remain vigilant and report suspicious activity near commercial properties to help prevent further losses.
The takeaway
Used cooking oil is increasingly targeted by criminal groups due to its value as a raw material for renewable fuels. Business operators should ensure their grease collection procedures are documented and staff are trained to verify legitimate collection services.
Further reading
For more information on regional enforcement, visit the Financial Crime section.
