Additional Coverage:
- Pirro warns car theft ring used new tech to quickly access vehicles: ‘Gone in 60 seconds’ (foxnews.com)
A sophisticated car theft ring capable of stealing vehicles in under a minute-without the need for keys, broken windows, or hot-wiring-has been unveiled in a comprehensive federal indictment. The operation reveals a high-tech pipeline moving stolen cars from U.S. streets to overseas black markets.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro announced on Wednesday a 15-count indictment targeting the ring. The group reportedly uses an electronic device called an Autel, which can reprogram a vehicle’s internal computer system, allowing thieves to create a blank key fob and bypass traditional theft methods.
According to Pirro, the crew has operated across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Pennsylvania, targeting a variety of vehicles-from luxury models like Corvettes and Camaros to popular everyday cars such as the Honda Civic.
Once stolen, the suspects are accused of disabling vehicle tracking systems, including GPS and Bluetooth, to evade detection. They also allegedly “cooled off” the cars by swapping license plates at locations such as a Maryland Marriott parking garage. The vehicles were then loaded onto transport carriers at major ports in Savannah, Georgia, and Baltimore, Maryland.
To avoid scrutiny during shipment, the stolen cars were reportedly concealed in containers labeled as furniture. Investigators say these vehicles were then shipped primarily to African markets, where the demand is high and profits substantial.
“This isn’t just about joyriding,” Pirro emphasized. “These are high-end vehicles loaded onto transport carriers and shipped overseas, especially to Africa, where demand and profits are enormous.”
The indictment details more than 20 stolen vehicles valued at nearly $1 million, but authorities believe the ring’s reach could involve over 100 thefts in Washington, D.C., and more than 30 in Prince George’s County, Maryland-totaling approximately $4 million in stolen property.
Five men currently face charges: Jacob Hernandez, David Coby, Dustin Wetzel, Chance Clark, and James Young. They are charged with conspiracy, possession and transport of stolen vehicles, among other federal offenses.
The investigation remains active, with law enforcement warning the public about the rising use of advanced technology in car theft schemes. Metropolitan Police Department Interim Chief Jeffery Carroll advised vehicle owners to use preventative measures, such as storing key fobs in Faraday bags that block electronic signals and employing traditional anti-theft devices like steering wheel clubs.
“While some may see these as old-fashioned, they remain effective,” Carroll said. “These devices can prevent vehicles from being driven, even if someone uses an Autel device to gain access.”