ST. LOUIS, Mo. (Matrix Midwest) – Ten people have been indicted for their alleged role in a racketeering conspiracy to steal dozens of cars from dealers across the bi-state.
The group, known as “the strikers,” committed the crimes between the summer of 2023 and the spring of 2024. Prosecutors said in total about 20 dealerships were burglarized, and they stole around 50 cars worth about $3 million. Through social media, the stolen cars were sold for between $500 and $10,000.
The group is also accused of using the stolen cars to commit other crimes, including a series of early morning car break-ins at a downtown St. Louis in November of 2023 and an armed robbery in January of 2024.
“The repercussions of vehicle theft extend well beyond property loss. In the St. Louis area, stolen vehicles are routinely employed by criminals to commit violent offenses and avoid identification,” explained Special Agent in Charge Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “Investigating these theft rings allows the FBI’s Violent Crimes Task Force to effectively prevent further violent crimes.”…