ONE OF KANT'S LESSER KNOWN MORAL IMPERATIVES

Experts Say Rising Gas Prices Spur Thefts

AM Industry experts say gasoline theft cost retailers $237 million last year and this year may be much worse because of the higher prices. With gasoline prices soaring, industry experts predict the number of drive-offs - and violence - will increase.

But gas station owners are wrestling with a dilemma. How do they make sure people don't steal gas without hurting profits from other parts of their business? Many stations have gone to a pay-first policy, but they say that cuts down browsing and buying in gas station stores, which is a big chunk of their income.

A spokesman for the National Association of Convenience Stores says "As the price of gas climbs, people's values decline."

link