Two Perris Men Arrested in Multi-County Diesel Theft Scheme

Two men from Perris are behind bars this morning on suspicion of stealing thousands of gallons of diesel fuel throughout Riverside County.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department says the investigation began after a May 2025 theft in Mecca, where suspects made off with 463 gallons of diesel. That was followed by a far larger March 2026 theft in Coachella, where 9,000 gallons of fuel, valued at around $63,000, were taken.

Investigators identified 40-year-old Steven Bailey and 27-year-old Brian Mena as the prime suspects. The two were arrested in Perris on Tuesday on suspicion of grand theft, conspiracy, and organized retail theft.

The investigation remains ongoing. Detectives are asking anyone with additional information to contact the Thermal Station's Rural Crime Team.