NEW BEDFORD — Used cooking oil theft is becoming an increasingly brazen issue for local eateries, and recent incidents in New Bedford have taken a bizarre turn involving an out-of-town plumbing business.
Overnight, thieves targeted used oil containers at several local establishments, leaving behind major messes in their wake. Among the victims are Cafe Roma, G&S Pizza, and Mikey B’s
At Cafe Roma, the culprits broke into the used oil container and spilled significant amounts across the parking lot. Frustrated by the aftermath, ownership posted online: “Next time you steal our old oil try not to trash the parking lot.” Similar thefts and messes were subsequently reported at G&S Pizza and Mikey B’s.
Security Footage Points to Out-of-Town Plumbing Company
Security camera footage captured by a neighboring business has blown the lid off the operation, identifying the vehicle involved as a plumbing company truck belonging to Terkanian Plumbing out of Spencer, MA.
In an attempt to get answers, multiple calls were placed to the phone numbers associated with the business. One number was found to be disconnected, while the other went straight to voicemail. Furthermore, a check of the business listing’s address revealed it is registered to a residential home that is heavily set back and not visible from the road.
Local restaurant owners and community members are hoping for a swift resolution as police look into the string of thefts targeting the area’s used grease containers.
