Kyle Police Department arrests two in separate gas skimming incidents

KYLE, TEXAS – The Kyle Police Department recently arrested two men in separate gas skimming incidents.

On Saturday, April 23 at 5:04 p.m., Kyle Police Officers responded to the 7-11 at 19350 Interstate Highway 35, after an employee called to report two vehicles at the gas pumps, pumping gas into hidden compartments. The employee also noticed the individuals were using multiple gift cards to make numerous separate purchases.

One vehicle left prior to the officers’ arrival, however one remained on scene. An Austin resident, Miguel Angel Vidal Flores, age 29, was arrested for Unlawful Use of Criminal Instrument, a third degree felony.

Then on Monday, April 25 at 2:45 p.m., officers responded back to the same 7-11, after another employee recognized similar behavior. The vehicle in this incident left prior to the officers’ arrival, however, an officer located it driving a short distance from the gas station.

When the officer initiated the traffic stop, he observed numerous gift cards being thrown out the window of the suspect vehicle.

After the stop was made, officers retrieved the discarded gift cards, and the driver was subsequently arrested and charged with Unlawful Use of Criminal Instrument and Tampering with Physical Evidence, a third degree felony.

The driver was identified as Austin resident Alberto Carlos Alonso Robina, age 22. Robina was also identified as the suspect in another gas theft at the same location in the previous week.

The Kyle Police Department is continuing its investigation into both cases and more charges are likely forthcoming. If you have information concerning this or other related crimes, please contact the Kyle Police Department at 512-268-3232. This is an ongoing investigation.