And unless the witness can positively identify the driver, there's no case. But some station owners contend that the real problem is that police are not doing all they can to catch the crooks. The man asked that his name not be used because he was talking without his employer's permission. He said he has given detailed descriptions to the police, including once obtaining a license number, a vehicle make and a description of the driver. He told police he would press charges, but police have made no arrest.
Police say it's because there are more gas stations in Virginia Beach to hit.
It is difficult to gauge how many gas stations exist in South Hampton Roads. The Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce does not keep records, and a business license may apply to several chains owned by one person. The Yellow Pages does not have a complete listing. Others say the rise in thefts mirrors the increase in gas prices. But prices have leveled off since last summer's spike, and thefts have not.