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20 Indicted in $4.6M Multi-State Auto Theft Ring After Three-Year Probe

Operation Hellcat dismantled a sophisticated Queens-based criminal enterprise that stole 126 vehicles and sold them through social media platforms.

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz speaks to the press during a conference regarding 20 defendants indicted in a vehicle theft ring dubbed “Operation Hellcat” at the Queens District Attorney’s Office in Queens, Thursday, May 8, 2025. (Shawn Inglima/New York Daily News)
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Overview

  • The Queens District Attorney's Office, NYPD, and New York State Police conducted a three-year investigation, leading to the indictment of 20 individuals in a major auto theft ring.
  • The operation uncovered a highly organized enterprise that stole vehicles across New York City, Long Island, and New Jersey, valued at over $4.6 million.
  • Fourteen defendants face enterprise corruption charges, which could result in sentences of up to 25 years if convicted.
  • The criminal network used advanced tactics, including disabling tracking systems, altering VINs, and leveraging social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to sell stolen cars.
  • Sixteen suspects have been arrested, while two remain at large and two others are expected to surrender.