A rise in gas prices is leading to a rise in gas thefts.

Over the weekend, more than a half dozen company vans for Satellites Unlimited were damaged when someone drilled holes in all of the gas tanks.

"They used a three inch drill on some of them to drain the gas out of them," said Bo Hawkins of Nelson Hall Chevrolet, who added the tanks hold about thirty gallons.

Expected to cost about $12,000 to replace all of the gas tanks, local police say puncturing gas tanks to get gas is becoming more common.

"They recognize the value of gas now," said Police Chief Benny Dubose. "I don't think we are having individuals taking gas for personal use but I think they're taking this gas to sell it."

Because of a recent gas theft during a service, members of the Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church in Zero have started a parking lot patrol.

"My understanding is that about a year, maybe two years ago, they had to do this before, because people were coming onto the parking lot during worship service hours trying to steal purses out of vehicles," said the Rev. Kenny McGill. "And so this may turn into a regular thing now."

A conviction for stealing gas can result in jail time ranging from less than a year to up to ten years.

Meanwhile, police are reminding the public to avoid parking in isolated areas. However, if you must, they say you should make sure that it is a fenced area with good lighting.