Deputies investigate oilfield related thefts

Gregg County deputies have investigated six separate reports of oilfield related thefts since March 21.

"Four of the six thefts appear to be related due to the geographic location of the offenses," Mike Claxton, sheriff 's lieutenant, said. "The other two are in different sectors of the county."

The reported value of losses at these theft sites exceeds $25,000. Electrical wire, joints of tubing, tubing elevators and pump cables were stolen, according to Claxton.

He said investigators have developed limited information indicating that a white, flatbedstyle truck equipped with a hoist or crane was seen near theft locations on Magnolia Road, south of White Oak.

"Even though citizens see vehicles in areas of oil operations we don't always receive calls because those type of vehicles are commonly used by legitimate companies," Claxton said. "We would encourage anyone who notices vehicles near production locations - specifically after dark - to call law enforcement. We would rather stop and check an actual worker than miss an opportunity to stop a thief."

According to Claxton sheriff 's investigators are taking steps to identify and arrest those offenders responsible for these types of thefts.

"We are engaged in dialogue with oil and gas production company representatives, Texas Rangers and adjoining law enforcement agencies, hoping those efforts will provide leads we need to solve and close these investigations," Claxton said. "Anyone who can provide specific information to law enforcement, that increases our solvability factors, could be considered for cash rewards. There is money in place for the right information."