RICHLAND TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- Police in Richland Township, Cambria County said they are becoming overwhelmed with reports of people driving off without paying. They are now cracking down on the thieves and encouraging gas stations to change their payment policies.

In the past, Richland Township police would give the thieves a chance to pay for the gas they took, instead of filing charges against them. But the department is changing their policy because of all the extra work it's causing for investigators.

If someone drives off without paying, they will be charged for retail theft right away.

Officials said they have to try to stop the thefts now because if they don't, the problem will continue to rise along with the gas prices.

Officers are also working with gas station owners, asking them to require customers to pay before they pump. But not all of the gas stations in the township are complying with the request.