Police say a high-tech car theft ring led by two brothers is suspected of using key fob programmers to steal $2.5 million worth of luxury vehicles from dealerships across Florida.
Authorities had been investigating the crime ring since mid-March, after it allegedly stole 30 new vehicles from 20 parking lots in 11 counties. According to a statement from the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
“They acted quickly but did not have enough gas to elude police,” state Attorney General Ashley Moody said in a statement.
“And now, [the Sheriff’s Office] The brakes have been put on their operations, and my state's attorneys will make sure they pay for their multi-million dollar criminal conduct.”
The investigation, dubbed “Operation Family Incident,” centered on 21-year-old Rafael Garcia and his 16-year-old brother, Christian Garcia, both of whom already have lengthy criminal histories, according to the sheriff's office.
Authorities say the filthy duo and their associates would search through dealerships and choose a car, usually an expensive luxury model like a Dodge Charger or Challenger Hellcat, a Chevrolet Corvette or Camaro or a Jeep Trailhawk.
Authorities said the perpetrators then broke into the cars' windows and sunroofs, gained entry and used a programmer to create new keys for each vehicle.
Sheriff Chad Chronister said they will then take the car to a storage facility where it will either be sold to a buyer or dismantled for parts.
Authorities arrested the Garcia brothers and their associates, Bisma Faiyas Siar, 22, Adriel Fabian Mendez Arroyo, 17, and Enzo Prado Oliveira, 18, last Wednesday, authorities said.
The suspects face numerous charges, including motor vehicle theft, conspiracy and federal organized crime.
Police are still searching for one suspect, whose identity has not been released by the sheriff's office.
“The Auto Theft Unit's work with partners across the state sends a loud and clear message that there is no place for auto theft in Florida,” Chronister said in a statement.
“Not only did these individuals conspire to commit a continuing series of crimes, but they also reaped significant profits from their conduct,” he continued.
“Our detectives and deputies conducted a thorough investigation and held these criminals accountable for their actions.”
