A vehicle theft ring with at least 14 members has stolen cars worth close to $5 million from Miami International Airport. Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) between 2023 and November 2024, as reported Fox News citing a search warrant obtained by NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth. Authorities have identified 14 suspects involved in the theft of 52 cars, representing a significant theft operation at one of the country’s busiest airports.
Airport police DFW confirmed that several recent arrests have contributed to dismantling part of the criminal network, which has led to a notable reduction in reported thefts in the terminal areas. Compared to the 142 vehicle thefts recorded in 2023, only 60 incidents were reported as of November 2024, representing a 58% year-on-year decrease. Investigations continue as the remaining suspects are searched.
The thefts have primarily focused on high-end sports cars and SUVs, according to airport statements. This type of crime is part of a national trend affecting airports and other public facilities, driven by organized crime networks operating in multiple states.
Airport police DFW confirmed that significant arrests have been made that have allowed part of the criminal network to be dismantled and robberies at the airport to be reduced. In 2023, 142 vehicle thefts were reported in the airport’s terminal areas, while through November 2024, the figure was reduced to 60, representing a decrease of 58%, an airport spokesperson told Fox News.
Thefts focus on sports cars and luxury SUVs. The airport spokesperson indicated that the total thefts are low compared to the 3.4 million vehicles that are parked annually in DFW.
According to the affidavit cited by NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worththe alleged leader of the network, Yoel Hernandez-Frometaused Autel devices to reprogram electronic keys, facilitating vehicle theft. Gene Petrinoco-owner of Survival Response LLC and former commander of SWATexplained to Fox News that these tools, designed for locksmiths and mechanics, can be misused to reset car keys and bypass modern security systems.
Eric Brownfounder of Imperio Consulting and veteran of the security forces, told Fox News that organized theft networks employ tactics similar to those used by terrorist cells or transnational criminal networks, attacking targets with weak security measures and predictable routines.
In July 2024, Yoel Hernandez-Frometa, José Alejandro Pavón-Estopian y Vainer Pinollotoro were arrested in Salt Lake City, Utahafter being found with a stolen vehicle. Charges include possession of a stolen vehicle, fleeing police and carrying burglary tools.
During the investigation, authorities found blank electronic keys and access cards to a nearby motel. With a search warrant, the team SWAT of the Police Department Salt Lake City located more evidence, including computers and key reprogramming devices.
The criminal network has operated in several airports in western EUincluding Texas, New Mexico, Utah y Nevadaaccording to Fox News. Investigations continue to identify and arrest the other 11 members of the network.
Brown explained to the same medium These networks divide tasks: some are in charge of scanning parking lots and identifying valuable vehicles, while others are in charge of false documentation and resale. This division complicates the tracking and prosecution of those responsible.
Collaboration between local, state and federal agencies is key to combating these networks. The Field Office of FBI in dallas actively participates in the investigation together with the Airport Police DFW.
Petrino He noted that coordination between jurisdictions is essential because these networks operate in multiple states, making them difficult to locate and dismantle. Local police resource limitations also present a challenge.
Brown recommended travelers park in well-lit areas, close doors, remove valuables or keep them out of sight, and ensure alarms and tracking systems are active. Prevention is a crucial tool to reduce the risk of falling victim to these theft networks.
