DETROIT, Mich. – Twelve Michigan residents have been sentenced for their roles in a large-scale auto theft ring that targeted new vehicles across more than 40 municipalities, according to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.
How the Operation Worked
Prosecutors say the group stole new vehicles from dealerships, parking lots, homes, and manufacturing facilities. The stolen cars were then sold at below-market prices to buyers looking for unregistered vehicles.
The theft ring operated in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw, Eaton, and Kent counties.
Investigation and Coordination
The Troy Police Department began investigating in August 2023. By May 2024, the department joined forces with the state’s FORCE Team, leading to multiple arrests and eventual convictions.
“This investigation is a direct result of collaboration across Southeast Michigan. Together, police agencies devoted countless hours to dismantle a ring that harmed communities across our state,” Attorney General Nessel said.
Sentences Handed Down
The 12 individuals received varying sentences:
- Davonta Jones, 31, Detroit – 15 months to 20 years
- Davion Tucker, 22, Detroit – 30 months to 20 years
- Donovan Tucker, 23, Detroit – 8 months prison + 3 years probation
- Timothy Bell, 22, Detroit – 34 months to 20 years
- Jerry Burton, 20, Detroit – 91 days in jail
- Omari Roetherford, 22, Detroit – 1 year
- Braylen Green, 21, Wixom – 3 to 20 years
- Joseph Doyle, 26, Onstead – 30 months
- Zamarr Johnson, 20, Troy – 3 to 20 years
- Kevin Stevenson, 22, Detroit – 5 to 20 years
- Desmond Wilson, 22, Detroit – 18 months to 20 years
- Dejohn Bush, 21, Detroit – 1 year
Regional Impact
Police departments from Auburn Hills, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Canton, Dearborn, Detroit, Eastpointe, Farmington Hills, Lansing, Livonia, Novi, Roseville, Royal Oak, Southfield, Sterling Heights, Walled Lake, and Warren contributed to the investigation, along with auto theft units in Oakland and Macomb counties…