Houston Police Bust Organized Theft Ring

Houston, TX -- A massive organized crime ring was busted by Houston-area law enforcement agencies on Tuesday, June 28. The round-up resulted in the arrest of 130 people, 76 in Houston alone, and more than 200 charges.

Police officers are still looking for members of the theft ring, which allegedly targeted big-ticket items that were transported in small trailers. Unlike traditional organized crime groups, which have a clear hierarchy, this ring was more of a loosely affiliated network of friends and family members -- most of whom came from Houston's east side.

The thieves, who operated throughout Houston and Southeast Texas, allegedly called the scouting process "going shopping," according to a statement from the Houston Police Department. They would drive the Houston-area looking for small trailers, covered or uncovered.

Once a trailer was spotted, the thieves allegedly observed it to see if someone was returning to it. If no one came, the thieves would back a truck or van up to the trailer, hook it up and drive off. The trailers and merchandise were stored on property owned by family members and friends.

Breaking the ring took a year-long investigation, dubbed "Operation Wheels and Deals," by multiple local law enforcement agencies including the Houston Police Department, Pasadena Police Department and Baytown Police Department.

Initially, multiple HPD divisions were conducting independent investigations into the group. In April 2015, HPD conducted an undercover operation at the Port of Houston involving the sale and purchase of stolen items.

During the course of the investigation, HPD officers learned that the Pasadena Police Department was also investigating the same suspects for theft.

It came to light that HPD's burglary and theft division was investigating a related case involving the theft the entire inventory of a motorcycle apparel shop. The Harris County District Attorney's Office determined that various HPD divisions -- which also included auto theft and narcotics --

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