LOPATCONG TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Two Reading, Pa., men were arrested in Lopatcong Township in connection with the theft of used cooking oil from local restaurants, police said.
On Tuesday, September 23, officers responded to reports of an active theft in progress at China Fun and Acasia Thai Restaurant on Memorial Parkway. Police said they identified the suspects and took them into custody without incident.
Police identified the suspects as Juan Jimenez Frias, 42, and Dodamin Duarte Difo, 39.
Both men were charged with theft of moveable property, possession of burglary tools, and disorderly persons offenses, according to police.
The department said the theft of used cooking oil has become a recurring issue because of its resale value in the recycling market.
“The Lopatcong Police Department reminds residents and business owners that the theft of used cooking oil is a recurring issue due to its resale value in the recycling market,” the department said in a statement. “Officers continue to monitor for similar activity to protect local establishments.”
