Feds Charge 13 in Scheme Moving $1.14 Million in Stolen Cars to Mexican Cartels

Federal authorities recovered 29 vehicles valued at an estimated $1.14 million in an operation targeting a cross-border network of stolen cars. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas announced that 13 individuals now face charges in the scheme, dubbed Operation Southbound Takedown. The vehicles were allegedly used to support the daily operations of Mexican cartels.

Prosecutors stated that the stolen cars and trucks were taken from private owners and major rental companies before being driven through El Paso, Texas, and across the border into Mexico. The investigation began in the spring after agents identified a pattern of vehicles moving to individuals connected to criminal organizations. Photos released by the office show a damaged white SUV recovered in Mexico, along with an armored black SUV and an armored pickup truck.

Ryan G. McRae, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in El Paso, said the thefts are not isolated property crimes. "These are not isolated property crimes," McRae said. "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." He noted that the work is ongoing and that authorities are not stopping.

U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons warned that cartels are exploiting people seeking quick financial gains. He listed the criminal activities supported by the vehicles, including human smuggling, extortion, drug trafficking, and murder. "You are now on notice," Simmons said. "If you provide support to these cartels.. we will find you, and we will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law."

Of the 13 people charged, 11 are U.S. citizens and two are Mexican citizens. One Mexican citizen holds a lawful permanent resident card, while the other holds a border crossing card. Two Americans, Kimberly Aguilar and Marty Gerardo Jr., are in state custody. The remaining 11 were federally indicted and arrested between July 22 and Oct. 19.

All 13 defendants face charges for interstate transportation of stolen property. Each person faces up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted. The investigation involved the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and other federal, state, and local agencies working through the Homeland Security Task Force. FBI El Paso Acting Special Agent in Charge Coult W. Markovsky added that justice will find those assisting the cartels.