When we think of criminals, we imagine sinister masterminds or reckless rebels. But sometimes, the law catches people whose crimes are more confusing than cunning. Here are the most bizarre cases of “criminals” with a weird reputation. 

1. Greg “The Gallon” Thompson

Most people steal gas from someone else’s car. Not Greg. He was caught siphoning 400 miles of gas, straight from his own vehicle. Authorities assumed he was running an illegal fuel operation. But, in reality, Greg was testing how much gas his car could hold. Did he deserve to be convicted? Maybe. Did he deserve the nickname? Absolutely. 

2. Carrie with the Cart

Shoplifting is a crime, but Carrie took it to another level—literally. She didn’t steal groceries or electronics; she walked straight out of a Target with an entire shopping cart, which was empty. Police reports remain unclear on whether she thought the cart was free or if she planned to return it. Either way, Carrie found herself in cuffs for “grand theft…cart.” 

3. The Fremont Forklift

Imagine waking up to find your neighborhood Starbucks has disappeared overnight. That’s exactly what happened to Fremont’s Starbucks when a man known as “The Fremont Forklift” used heavy machinery to move an entire coffee shop into his backyard. Was it a statement because they’re getting of their Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino? A misguided home renovation? The jury is out. 

4. The DMV Delinquent 

Daniel was at the DMV to take his behind-the-wheel test for the fourth time, full of hope. But, he started losing it after standing there for three hours. One man, dubbed “The DMV Delinquent,” took it a step further: after three grueling hours in line, he simply laid down and fell asleep…in the middle of the parking lot. When staff couldn’t wake him up, authorities were called. His crime? “Obstructing government operations.” His real offense? Having too much patience. 

5. Luigi and Mario’s Pizza

Sometimes, customer service gets personal. The infamous duo, Luigi and Mario (yes, real names), were arrested after throwing welcoming every customer with a pepperoni pizza slap on their face. The details are still developing, but one thing is clear: whatever the customer did, it must’ve been serious. Was it a bad tip? Argument over pineapple on pizza? Eating pizza with a fork and a knife (it’s happened before)? We may never know.

While these criminals may have broken laws, their stories raise an interesting question. Are they true criminals, or just victims of bizarre circumstances? In a world full of serious crime, maybe it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate those who break the laws with their own quirk.