(DailyEmailNews.com) – Raising serious concerns about the safety of American travelers and their property, a shocking $5 million luxury vehicle heist exposed a massive security breach at a major U.S. airport.
Specifically, the Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport has become the epicenter of this alarming crime wave.
At least 14 suspects have been identified as members of a Houston-based theft ring.
These criminals have stolen approximately 52 cars from DFW alone, resulting in a staggering total loss of $4.9 million.
Law enforcement agencies have made significant progress in combating this threat. As a result, three key suspects are now behind bars.
Alleged ringleader Yoel Hernandez-Frometa and his accomplices face charges of engaging in organized criminal activity.
The complex way this criminal enterprise works is deeply troubling. Thieves used advanced technology to reprogram key fobs, change Vehicle Identification Numbers and illegally retitle stolen cars.
Many of these vehicles were then smuggled across the southern border into Mexico.
“What we have seen is that the crime is getting more and more sophisticated as technology progresses,” said Tarleton State criminologist Alex Del Carmen.
This crime spree extends far beyond Texas as the theft ring has targeted airports in Nevada, New Mexico and Utah.
The multi-jurisdictional nature of these crimes negatively impacts tracking and prosecution efforts.
While recent arrests have led to a significant reduction in car thefts at DFW – nearly 58% from 2023 to 2024 – the threat remains real.
In 2023, 142 vehicle thefts were reported at DFW, compared to 60 through November 2024.
However, even this reduced number is unacceptable for hardworking Americans who expect their property to be safe when traveling.
The FBI’s Dallas Field Office is now assisting DFW Airport Police with the ongoing investigation.
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