A sophisticated cross-border network allegedly supplied Mexican criminal organizations with stolen vehicles to bolster their illicit operations, according to federal authorities. Thirteen individuals now face charges in connection with the extensive scheme.
These vehicles, taken from both private owners and major rental car companies, were reportedly driven through El Paso, Texas, before crossing the border into Mexico. Once in Mexico, they were purportedly integrated into the daily activities of various cartels, as detailed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.
As part of the ongoing inquiry, officially named "Operation Southbound Takedown," law enforcement has successfully recovered 29 vehicles, with an estimated collective value of $1.14 million, prosecutors confirmed.
Ryan G. McRae, the special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in El Paso, emphasized that the pattern of stolen vehicles points to a broader criminal enterprise beyond simple auto theft.
"These are not isolated property crimes," McRae stated. "The stolen vehicles related to Operation Southbound Takedown demonstrate an alarming pattern and are used to support the day-to-day operations of dangerous criminal organizations."
Prosecutors released images showcasing some of the recovered vehicles, including a damaged white SUV found in Mexico, alongside an armored black SUV and an armored pickup truck.
The investigation commenced in the spring after federal agents and prosecutors identified a consistent trend of stolen vehicles being transported to individuals with alleged ties to criminal organizations operating in Mexico, according to the U.S. attorney’s office.
Warning Issued to Those Aiding Cartels
U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons issued a stern warning to anyone contemplating transporting stolen vehicles into Mexico, noting that cartels actively exploit individuals seeking "a quick buck" to advance their criminal endeavors. He elaborated that these illicit operations encompass "human smuggling, extortion, drug trafficking, and even murder."
"You are now on notice," Simmons declared. "If you provide support to these cartels, many of which have been designated as foreign terrorist organizations, by transporting stolen vehicles out of this country and into Mexico, we will find you, and we will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law."
Individuals Charged and Ongoing Efforts
Of the 13 individuals facing charges, 11 are U.S. citizens, and two are Mexican citizens, prosecutors stated. One of the Mexican citizens possesses a lawful permanent resident card, while the other holds a border crossing card.
Two of the American defendants, Kimberly Aguilar and Marty Gerardo Jr., are currently in state custody. The remaining 11 individuals were federally indicted and subsequently arrested between July 22 and October 19, prosecutors confirmed.
All 13 defendants are charged with interstate transportation of stolen property. If convicted, they could face sentences of up to 10 years in federal prison. It is important to note that these charges are allegations, and each individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
The collaborative investigation involved multiple agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and various other federal, state, and local entities operating under the umbrella of the Homeland Security Task Force.
McRae also highlighted the cooperation between authorities and private-sector partners in dismantling the alleged vehicle theft and transportation network, describing the investigation as a joint effort spanning both the United States and Mexico.
"This work is ongoing; we’re not stopping here," he affirmed.
Acting Special Agent in Charge Coult W. Markovsky of FBI El Paso also delivered a warning to those assisting cartels.
"To individuals assisting the cartels, Justice will find you!" he asserted.