NJ Pickup Driver Accused Of Stealing Gas In NY With Enlarged Fuel Tank

NYACK, NY — A New Jersey man faces charges in Nyack Village Court in a case of fraudulent purchases made with a New York State Fleet Fuel Card.

Investigators from the New York State Police Catskill barracks began a probe April 5 into purchases on a state card made at gas stations throughout Rockland County.

State Police in the Monroe and Haverstraw barracks assisted in identifying a suspect and vehicle.

Police said on April 24, they saw the suspect, Angel Alvarez-Michel, operating a 2008 Ford F350 with a temporary registration in Orange County.

A vehicle and traffic stop was conducted on State Route 17 in Chester; Alvarez-Michel was placed under arrest, and his vehicle was impounded.

Police said investigators examining the truck discovered it had been modified to hold a significant amount of fuel.

The 38-year-old Belleville, New Jersey man was subsequently charged with Possession of a Forged Instrument 2nd degree, a D felony, Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 4th degree, an E felony, Petit Larceny, Unlawful Possession of Personal ID 3rd degree, Identity Theft 3rd degree, all misdemeanors.

He was arraigned in the Village of Nyack Court and released on his own recognizance.