Thirteen individuals have been charged in a federal investigation into a scheme that allegedly supplied stolen vehicles to Mexican cartels. The vehicles were reportedly stolen from private owners and rental companies and transported through El Paso, Texas, into Mexico. Authorities have recovered 29 vehicles valued at about $1.14 million as part of Operation Southbound Takedown. The charges include interstate transportation of stolen property, with potential sentences of up to 10 years in federal prison if convicted.
Key facts
- Thirteen individuals charged in a vehicle theft scheme linked to Mexican cartels.
- 29 stolen vehicles worth approximately $1.14 million have been recovered.
- Investigation named Operation Southbound Takedown began in spring 2023.
- Charges include interstate transportation of stolen property, with up to 10 years in prison.
- The investigation involved multiple federal, state, and local agencies.
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