Glendale, CA – The Glendale Police Department (GPD) has successfully dismantled a large-scale fuel and identity theft operation by brothers Ambartsoum and Armen Pogosian.

The investigation, initiated in July 2022, uncovered a string of gasoline thefts involving stolen credit card accounts. As a result of that investigation, GPD detectives got felony identity theft charges filed against Ambartsoum.

In September 2023, Tulare County Sheriff's Office (TCSO) detectives contacted GPD to share information that the brothers were still active. In their jurisdiction, TCSO had arrested Armen Pogosian for using stolen credit card accounts to purchase diesel fuel. He was found to possess over 225 stolen credit card accounts, cash and a converted pick-up truck (or bladder truck), carrying approximately 300 gallons of stolen diesel fuel.

Through investigative means, Glendale Police detectives located the Pogosian brothers’ residence and executed a search warrant on September 27. The detectives found approximately 100 stolen credit card accounts, card readers/writers, $33,000 in cash, numerous identity theft materials, narcotics and another "bladder truck."

A bladder truck, like the one used by the suspects, is a vehicle with a large exterior tank (or bladder).  Using stolen credit cards, suspects fill the bladder with fuel to sell on the black market. When one credit card is maxed out, they change to the next credit card and continue pumping gas into the bladder.

Both suspects were promptly arrested and booked at the Glendale City Jail.

GPD continues to be vigilant in its pursuit of criminal activities, ensuring the safety and security of the community.

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Media Contact:  Sgt. Jackson | Office: 818-937-8888 | Email: GPDPIO@GlendaleCA.gov