20 Indicted For Running $4.6M NYC Car Theft Ring: DA Says

NEW YORK CITY — Twenty individuals have been indicted and charged in connection with a multi-million-dollar car theft ring across New York City and its suburbs, prosecutors announced.

Hondas, Dodge Hellcats, BMWs, Mercedes-Benzes and Land Rovers were among the vehicles stolen — with some stolen out of owners’ driveways, some with the keys or key fobs inside.

The 126 vehicles — valued at more than $4.6 million — were often sold, including through advertisements on social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, prosecutors said.

Forty-four vehicles were bought by undercover police officers.

The indictments are the result of a three-year investigation by the Queens District Attorney’s office dubbed "Operation Hellcat."

Fourteen of the defendants have been charged with enterprise corruption, grand larceny, criminal possession of stolen property and conspiracy. Six others are being charged separately.

“This is one of the most prolific and organized auto theft rings we have ever uncovered in New York City. With these indictments, we have dismantled a criminal enterprise that stole at least $4.6 million worth of vehicles from our streets and driveways. Our painstaking investigation employed undercover officers and court-authorized wiretaps to disrupt these determined car thieves," Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said.

Four defendants were arraigned Wednesday and nine were arraigned Thursday before Supreme Court Justice David Kirschner. Two others are expected to be arraigned Thursday, prosecutors said.

Two defendants have not been apprehended, and three others are expected to be arraigned at a later date.

"Today’s indictments mark a major victory in dismantling a sophisticated car theft ring operating across New York City. These criminals stole hundreds of vehicles, trafficking them across state lines and exploiting technology to bypass security. Thanks to the NYPD’s Auto Crime Unit, our law enforcement partners, and the Queens District Attorney’s office, these individuals are now facing justice. The NYPD will not tolerate those who target our communities and will use every resource to hold them accountable," NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch said.