Suspect Arrested for AG Diesel Theft 

July 30, 2026 – Merced County Sheriff's Office officials report that a two-month investigation targeting the theft of diesel fuel from local agricultural operations has resulted in the arrest of a suspect believed to have stolen more than 500 gallons of tax-exempt "red" diesel from farmers in Merced and Madera counties. Detectives with the Merced County Sheriff's Office Detectives Bureau served multiple search warrants as part of the investigation. Working in partnership with the Madera County Sheriff's Office, investigators arrested 55-year-old Andrew Roggero of El Nido on July 28, 2026, in connection with the thefts.

Agricultural fuel thefts have a direct financial impact on local farmers and can disrupt critical farming operations. The Merced County Sheriff's Office remains committed to protecting the agricultural community and holding those responsible for these crimes accountable. This investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges or arrests may follow. Anyone with information related to these thefts is 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.

Source: Merced County Sheriff's Office