Arizona Department of Public Safety arrested five individuals after an investigation into an organized crime ring operating a chop shop and stealing over $750,000 worth of high-end Mopar vehicles. The suspects used electronic technology to steal the vehicles, which were then dismantled, sold on the black market, or VIN-switched. Detectives have identified 16 stolen vehicles. The suspects face multiple felony charges.
Arizona Department of Public Safety investigators arrested five people following a months-long investigation into an organized crime ring accused of running a " chop shop " and stealing more than $750,000 worth of high-end vehicles.
Arizona Dept. of Public Safety investigators said the investigation involved hundreds of hours of "surveillance, suspect network identification, vehicle tracking, and evidence collection to document the organization’s operations and the movement of stolen vehicles."The suspects typically set their sights on "high-end Mopar vehicles," which include Hellcat, SRT and TRX models. They'd allegedly scout out apartment complexes beforehand."The suspects would return at a later time, unlawfully access the vehicles, and use electronic technology to start and steal them without a key," DPS said. "Once stolen, vehicles were either dismantled and sold for parts through online marketplaces and word of mouth, sold intact on the black market at steeply discounted prices, or, in some cases, VIN-switched and used by the suspects before being resold. To date, detectives have identified 16 stolen vehicles valued at more than $750,000."Investigators served eight search warrants – ending in five arrests. The suspects are accused of several felony charges, including fraud, theft of means of transportation, trafficking in stolen property, and possession of burglary tools.DPS did not release the names of the suspects, but did release photos of a few of them.DPS warns that thefts involving these types of cars are increasing and offers tips to keep cars safe.
Vehicle Theft Organized Crime Chop Shop Arizona DPS Stolen Vehicles
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