Police disrupt $4.9 million car theft ring at US' Dallas-Fort Worth Airport

A car theft ring operating at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has been disrupted by authorities. Police say the group stole 52 cars worth $4.9 million between 2023 and November 2024. At least 14 people are believed to be involved, Fox News reported.

DFW Airport police arrests have led to a drop in car thefts. The airport reported 142 car thefts in 2023. Only 60 cars were reported stolen through November 2024, a 58% decrease. The thieves primarily targeted expensive muscle cars and luxury SUVs. DFW Airport sees 3.4 million parked cars every year.

“They look for weak security measures and predictable routines,” said Eric Brown, CEO of Imperio Consulting and a former US Army Special Forces Green Beret. “The key for travellers is to avoid making your vehicle a soft target.”

Authorities believe 37-year-old Yoel Hernandez-Frometa led the ring. He allegedly used "Autel devices" to reprogram key fobs. Retired Swat commander Gene Petrino confirmed these devices are often used to bypass security systems. “They target vehicles based on market demand or resale value,” Petrino added.

Hernandez-Frometa and two others were arrested in Salt Lake City, Utah, in July 2024 while looking at cars near the airport. They tried to run from police but were caught. Police found blank key fobs and reprogramming tools in a stolen vehicle.

The ring is thought to be active in Texas, New Mexico, Utah, and Nevada. The FBI’s Dallas Field Office and DFW Airport Police are investigating. Local, state, and federal agencies are working together to stop the operation.
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