Maricopa County, AZ – Detectives with the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Vehicle Theft Task Force (VTTF) have arrested multiple suspects after a months-long investigation into an organized vehicle theft ring operating throughout the Phoenix metropolitan area.
According to the Arizona DPS, the suspects allegedly targeted high-end Dodge Mopar vehicles — including Hellcat, SRT, and TRX models — often scouting apartment complexes before returning to steal the vehicles using electronic key cloning technology. Detectives identified at least 16 stolen vehicles valued at more than $750,000.
Once stolen, authorities said the vehicles were either dismantled and sold for parts through online marketplaces or resold with altered VIN numbers. The investigation involved extensive surveillance, suspect tracking, and evidence collection to map the group’s operations.
Working with multiple investigative units, DPS served eight search warrants, resulting in five suspects taken into custody. They now face multiple felony charges, including fraud, theft of means of transportation, trafficking in stolen property, and possession of burglary tools.
The Vehicle Theft Task Force, which operates with support from the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority, continues efforts to reduce vehicle theft statewide. DPS also warned that thefts involving SRT Mopar vehicles are increasing.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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