New York State Police Warning Restaurants About Their Used Oil

Restaurant owners in New York State are being warned to keep their used cooking oil locked up by the New York State Police.

Troopers are responding to incidents involving used cooking oil

According to a post on their website, the New York State Police have had to respond to several incidents involving suspects who are siphoning used cooking oil from restaurant storage tanks.

They have found people using hoses and connecting them to the used cooking containers and pumping the oil into their own vehicle. Some have gone as far as using a box truck with industrial hoses and gas powered water pumps to get the oil.

Why are people stealing used cooking oil?

While it might feel weird to tell people to lock up something that seems like a simple waste product, it does have value. According to Troopers, "it has become a valuable commodity because it can be recycled into products such as renewable fuels, which is why it's become such an attractive target for thieves."

What should restaurants do?

Who knew this was such a popular thing for people to steal? At least three people have been arrested in New York State this month for stealing oil. The charges are misdemeanors, such as petit larceny, possession of stolen property, and conspiracy, for the thieves.

The police suggest doing these things to reduce the risk of theft:

• Installing cameras that monitor the storage areas
• Keeping storage tanks in well-lit areas whenever possible
• Using locks on containers
• Reporting suspicious vehicle or individuals on the property immediately by calling 911