People are just getting brazen now.

250 Gallons Of Gas Stolen From Car Dealership

Kathryn Brown ABINGDON, Md. (WJZ) One fallout from record oil and gas prices is a rise in gas thefts in Maryland and across the nation.

Not so long ago, gas pumps were just that. But with prices near record highs, they might as well be full of cold hard cash. Many thieves across the country and right here in Maryland are treating them like they are.

For more than three decades, Chris Boyle has padlocked the gas tank on the lot of his Abingdon Buick dealership, but a current crime wave sweeping the country is being fueled by record-high prices where it hurts the most.

"We have come in a couple times in the last several months and found gas caps on the ground from vehicles thinking somebody's trying to siphon a little bit here and there, but we never thought about losing a quantity like that," Boyle said.

Thieves recently broke into the dealership and cracked the padlock, stealing more than 250 gallons of gas. Then they came back for more.

"They've come back for a second time and they broke the handle off and the lock but they couldn't get any gas this time," he said.

Boyle is not alone. Across the country, gas thieves are siphoning gas wherever they can get it.

With the thieves still on the loose, police are cautioning drivers to keep a close eye on their own gas tanks.

"Definitely a sign of the times. Nobody knows when this is going to end or where it's going to end. You know people are strapped and they're just doing what they gotta do," Boyle said.

Police warn thieves can easily switch the hose if you leave your car while pumping gas and urge drivers to consider buying gas cap locks.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Harford County Sheriff's Office at 410-692-7880.

Additionally, Harford County Crime Solvers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of the persons responsible for the vandalism. To be eligible for the reward, tipsters must contact the tip-line at 1-888-540-TIPS. All information will be keep strictly confidential.