In a significant law enforcement operation, the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office has announced the dismantling of a large-scale car theft ring operating across the state. The operation, named “Operation Jacked,” resulted in the arrest of 11 individuals and the recovery of 43 stolen luxury vehicles valued at approximately $3.6 million. The stolen vehicles were allegedly destined for international markets, with a primary focus on West Africa.New Jersey Office of Attorney GeneralPatch+1New Jersey Office of Attorney General+1
Scope of the Operation
The criminal enterprise targeted high-end vehicles, particularly luxury SUVs and sedans, including models from Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche. The thefts occurred across various counties in New Jersey, including Essex, Union, Morris, Monmouth, and Middlesex. Investigators discovered that the stolen vehicles were transported to shipping ports in Newark and Elizabeth before being shipped overseas. The operation spanned several months, with authorities monitoring the activities of the suspects before executing coordinated arrests.nj.gov+3nj.gov+3New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3nj.gov+2New Jersey Office of Attorney General+2New Jersey Office of Attorney General+2New Jersey Office of Attorney General+1New Jersey Office of Attorney General+1
Methods of Theft
The thieves employed various methods to acquire the vehicles:New Jersey Office of Attorney General+2New Jersey Office of Attorney General+2nj.gov+2
- Carjackings: In some instances, the suspects forcibly took vehicles from their owners, often using weapons to intimidate victims.
- “Soft” Thefts: Vehicles were stolen from locations where owners had left them unattended, such as at car washes or airports.New Jersey Office of Attorney General+2nj.gov+2New Jersey Office of Attorney General+2
- Fraudulent Transactions: Some vehicles were obtained through fraudulent means, including the use of counterfeit documents to purchase cars from dealerships.nj.gov+1New Jersey Office of Attorney General+1
Once acquired, the vehicles were transported to shipping containers, misrepresented in shipping documents, and sent to various ports for export.New Jersey Office of Attorney General+4New Jersey Office of Attorney General+4New Jersey Office of Attorney General+4
International Trafficking
The stolen vehicles were primarily exported to West African countries, including Ghana, Nigeria, Guinea, and Gambia. In these markets, luxury vehicles can command prices exceeding their new market value in the United States, making them highly profitable for traffickers. The vehicles were often sold through a network of fences and intermediaries who facilitated the international sale.New Jersey Office of Attorney General+1New Jersey Office of Attorney General+1New Jersey Office of Attorney General+4New Jersey Office of Attorney General+4New Jersey Office of Attorney General+4
Legal Actions and Arrests
The 11 individuals arrested face multiple charges, including first-degree racketeering, conspiracy, and theft. Authorities have stated that the investigation is ongoing, and additional arrests may be forthcoming. The suspects are currently being held in custody, awaiting formal arraignment.nj.gov
Impact on Local Communities
This operation highlights the significant impact of organized crime on local communities. Residents in affected areas reported increased concerns over vehicle thefts and personal safety. The dismantling of this ring is expected to reduce such incidents and restore a sense of security to these communities.
Ongoing Investigations
Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the full extent of the operation, including potential connections to other criminal activities and networks. Authorities are also working with international partners to track the distribution and sale of the stolen vehicles abroad. The success of “Operation Jacked” underscores the effectiveness of interagency collaboration in combating transnational crime.nj.gov+3New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3New Jersey Office of Attorney General+3
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities. The Attorney General’s Office has assured the public that efforts will continue to dismantle organized crime operations and protect communities from such criminal enterprises.
For more information or to report tips related to vehicle theft, contact the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office or your local law enforcement agency.
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