A pilot at SZP-Santa Paula Airport, California spoke with me on 16 June about a rash of aviation fuel syphoning thefts at the airport. He lost 120 gallons of 100LL total in multiple thefts. At least two other aircraft, one nearby, one across the field are known victims of the same Modus Operandi. More may be discovered by absent owners in time. The victimized pilot spent $40 on two locking gas caps, which must be removed on his aircraft in preflight and original pressurized caps replaced before engine start.
Tampering with an aircraft is a Federal Offense. The Santa Paula Police Department has been notified. They are stepping up their night airport patrols.