Dawn Thompson, 45, was apprehended on March 6 following an investigation conducted by the Lincoln Police Department.

According to local news outlet KOLN, Thompson managed to pump free gas for more than six months by taking advantage of a software error that occurred as a result of a fuel pump update in November 2022. The glitch allowed anyone who swiped a rewards card twice to activate the pump's demo mode, enabling them to pump gas without paying.

During the period of exploitation, it is estimated that Thompson pumped a total of 7,413 gallons of gasoline for free. Based on an average fuel cost of $3.758 per gallon between November 2022 and June 2023, the stolen value is estimated to be $27,860.

The illicit activities came to light when a loss prevention manager for Bosselman Enterprise, the company that owns the gas station, discovered that a single rewards card had been repeatedly used to obtain free fuel. Further investigation led authorities to trace the card's information back to Thompson, who was also captured on video surveillance multiple times while pumping gas into her car.

Police revealed that Thompson used the rewards card over 500 times, with some instances of fuel theft occurring multiple times in a single day. Another individual claimed that Thompson had allowed her to use the card for "discounted" fuel, indicating potential accomplice involvement.

The glitch was reportedly rectified in June of last year. However, the investigation into Thompson's activities began on October 20, 2022, and has spanned several months leading up to her arrest.

At present, Thompson's name does not appear on the Lancaster County Department of Corrections' inmate roster, implying that she may have been released on bail or awaiting further legal proceedings.

The Lincoln Police Department's swift action in apprehending Thompson sends a strong message that illegal activities will not be tolerated, and those who seek to exploit software glitches for personal gain will face consequences.