Fuel theft, commercial property crime demands urgent attention

OPINION – As a concerned Californian and representative of more than 10,000 fuel and convenience stores, most of them small and ethnic-owned businesses, I’ve watched with growing apprehension as our state unsuccessfully tries to curb rising crime rates, particularly commercial property crimes. While the focus on addressing retail theft is much needed, it’s time we shed light on the alarming surge in burglaries, looting, and arson that is wreaking havoc on businesses across California. We have to do more to help prevent these crimes, rather than simply reacting after the damage is done – not only to protect economic stability, but more importantly, to protect the well-being of our communities.

“Smash-and-grabs” at CVSs, Targets, and other retail stores, are at the front-and-center in the media cycle lately, and rightfully so. Commercial property crimes tend to fly under the radar, not capturing the attention needed, because most happen within industrial and manufacturing locations and away from the public eye. Unfortunately, in my role as our association’s CEO, I hear these stories all the time. It’s hard to witness the emotional and financial toll these crimes take on business owners who pour their heart and soul into their enterprises, only to have their hard work reduced to ashes by criminals.

Commercial property crimes demand our immediate attention for several reasons. First and foremost, they inflict financial losses that can be crippling for small businesses already grappling with the economic fallout of the pandemic. Beyond the financial impact, these crimes erode the sense of security within our communities, leaving business owners and residents alike on edge. Public safety needs to be our highest priority.

To effectively tackle this issue, policymakers must prioritize preventative solutions that empower businesses to improve the security surrounding their premises. Installing proven crime prevention technologies is a proactive step that can fortify businesses against potential threats. By streamlining and incentivizing the adoption of these technologies, the State can better support businesses in protecting their properties, employees, and customers.

It is also crucial to recognize and address the intricate challenges presented by commercial property crimes that extend beyond mere theft. Incidents of goods being pilfered from shipping yards not only affect the businesses directly involved but also have cascading effects on the broader community. When shipments bound for grocery stores, hospitals, and other essential services are compromised, the consequences ripple through the supply chain, potentially leading to shortages and disruptions that impact the general public. Furthermore, specific instances, such as the theft of catalytic converters from rental car lots, highlight the need for comprehensive legislation. A collaborative initiative involving policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and business associations can result in the creation of a legislative framework that encourages businesses to implement security measures while ensuring legal consequences act as a deterrent. This multifaceted approach is essential for protecting businesses and critical supply chains, ultimately fostering a more secure and resilient socio-economic landscape.

Fuel stations, cardlock and convenience store owners are not strangers to theft. Fuel theft poses a grave threat to our state’s economic stability, the financial losses are substantial and impact the entire fuel chain. The escalating instances of fuel theft contribute significantly to the rise in fuel costs, exacerbating the financial burden on California consumers and all businesses that rely on movement of goods.

It’s often stated that the best cure for a life-threatening illness or disease is prevention – this approach is also necessary to lower crime rates. It is my hope that, as concerned citizens, we can collectively urge our policymakers to give equal attention to the silent crisis of commercial property crime. Our communities depend on it.

Elizabeth Graham is the Chief Executive Officer of the California Fuels & Convenience Alliance