In Lincoln, Nebraska, a woman allegedly discovered a loophole at a local gas station, resulting in free fuel. Prosecutors say this activity led to nearly $28,000 in losses for the station.
The 45-year-old woman was arrested on March 6 and charged with felony theft. Prosecutors allege she took advantage of a glitch over several months by using a rewards card twice at the pump.
The issue came to light in October when the loss-prevention manager at Bosselman Enterprises reported the fraud at their Pump & Pantry location in Lincoln. A software update in November 2022 triggered the glitch that allowed anyone using a rewards card twice to enter demonstration mode, enabling free gas pumping.
A probable cause statement indicated the manager identified a single card used repeatedly to gain free gas. Police traced this card to the suspect, with video evidence showing her pumping gas from November 2022 until the glitch was resolved on June 1.
Authorities suspect that the woman not only used the scam for personal gain but also sold access to another individual for a fee. This other person told police they paid for what they believed was discounted fuel. She reportedly paid $500 for free gas that should have cost $700.
The card registered 510 transactions, yielding over 7,400 gallons of complimentary gas. The suspect is currently free on bond and awaits a court hearing scheduled for April 11. Attempts to contact her lawyer have been made.
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