CHENANGO COUNTY - Two men have been arrested after a five-month investigation into the theft of diesel fuel from gas stations across Chenango County.

The Sheriff’s Office said the investigation began earlier this year after reports of about $70,000 worth of diesel fuel stolen from businesses in the county. Deputies reviewed security footage that provided vehicle descriptions linked to the thefts.

On Sept. 15 at about 11:30 p.m., deputies observed a vehicle matching the description at a local gas station, where two individuals were actively stealing diesel fuel when deputies intervened. Both were detained without incident.

A search warrant executed on the suspects’ vehicles turned up 85 stolen credit cards, card skimming devices, and electronic equipment used to steal debit and credit card information.

The vehicles were also equipped with custom storage tanks believed capable of holding more than 1,000 gallons of fuel.

The men charged were identified as Victor Martinez, 38, of Allentown, PA, and Osnely Pino Arago, 44, of Miami, FL.

Both were charged with 85 counts of grand larceny in the fourth degree, two counts of grand larceny in the third degree, and unlawful possession of a skimmer device.

They were arraigned in centralized arraignment court and released on their own recognizance.

The investigation remains ongoing, with the Sheriff’s Office working with multiple agencies across the state.

Sheriff Ernest R. Cutting Jr. commended the deputies and detectives involved for their diligent efforts and thorough investigative work over the past several months, which ultimately led to the successful apprehension of the suspects.

Anyone with additional information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact Detective Sergeant O’Hara at (607) 337-1921

- Information from the Chenango County Sheriff’s Office