Five alleged members of auto theft ring arrested in Cameron County
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Members of an auto theft ring in Cameron County are facing charges.
The group allegedly stole hundreds of vehicles and drove them into Mexico.
"I was sad," auto theft victim Juan Aguilar said.
That's what Aguilar felt the morning he woke up to see an empty lot where his 2023 yellow Camaro used to sit.
"All that hard work you do to own something of your own just for someone to take it just like that," Aguilar said.
Aguilar is one of more than 140 auto theft victims reported this year in Cameron County.
"My neighbor here across the street, two times," Aguilar said. "And then in three months, they came again."
Cameron County Sheriff Manuel Treviño says a weeks-long investigation led to the arrests of five people, including 28-year-old Benito Loredo, who deputies call the ringleader, and his wife, Andreina Gonzalez.
The three other alleged accomplices were reportedly recruited to drive the stolen vehicles.
Investigators say the group used an electronic device, mostly used by mechanics, to steal the cars by making keys for them; the device is legal to buy.
"Usually, mechanics use them, most of the time, that's what it's for, you know, for the mechanics to be able to get the correct information, since nowadays, everything's computerized. But of course, the criminal finds a better use for that item," Trevino said.
Deputies say about 20 vehicles stolen over the past few months were recovered, but many victims, like Aguilar, are left with damages and a deeper sense of worry.
"You go to sleep, right? But you're no longer getting a good night's sleep," Aguilar said.
Sheriff Treviño is urging drivers to protect themselves with locks, alarms or other anti-theft devices as the investigation continues.
"The club, that they call the steering wheel club, was used, and It's come back again," Trevino said. "Anything to deter that individual to go to another car or another vehicle that is unprotected helps you."
And Aguilar is following the advice.
"Well, we bought the steering wheel club," Aguilar said. "Later, we're going to have to put chains or something on the tires because it's tough."
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