Federal authorities have indicted five people tied to a high-tech car theft operation that stretches from San Antonio to the border, and two suspects remain at large. Law enforcement officials warned on Oct. 29 about ways thieves steal push-to-start vehicles without breaking glass or triggering alarms.
Surveillance video shared by the Laredo Police Department shows suspects approaching vehicles carrying handheld programming equipment. Police said thieves access a vehicle's computer system, program a blank key fob on the spot and gain full control of the car. Lt. Charlie Rosales of the Laredo Police Department said the process takes about a minute, and sometimes the vehicles are never recovered. Investigators say the entire operation takes only seconds.
Officials warned that push-to-start systems have become more vulnerable as holiday shopping increases in major hubs such as San Antonio and Austin. Investigators say stolen vehicles are quickly moved to the border and handed over to Mexican cartels. Police noted that auto thefts in Laredo have decreased 34% year over year.
Authorities advise drivers that key fobs or factory alarm locks alone are no longer enough. Investigators recommend using physical steering wheel locks, parking in well-lit areas under store surveillance cameras, and contacting police immediately if someone is seen lingering near vehicles with handheld electronics.