The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has dismantled a group that stole nearly $2.5 million worth of vehicles in the state of Florida.
During the Central Florida investigation, which spanned from March 18, 2024, through August 18, 2024, this group committed thefts from multiple car dealerships in Columbia County, Pasco County, Pinellas County, Alachua County, Marion County, Polk County, Manatee County, Sarasota County, Lee County, Collier County, and Hillsborough County.
“Operation Family Affair” centered around brothers Rafael and Christion Garcia, both of whom have lengthy criminal histories. The investigation revealed they played a role in the theft of more than 30 vehicles from more than 20 dealerships beginning in December 2023.
The individuals involved would smash a window or sunroof to gain access to the vehicle while using a programmer to create a new key for each car. After the theft, the cars would then be taken to a storage unit to have parts removed or sold to a buyer.
Among the stolen cars were high-end Chrysler models such as Charger Hellcat and Challenger Hellcat. Other high-end models targeted by these individuals included: Chevrolet Corvette, Chevrolet Camaro, Jeep TrackHawk, and Dodge Ram TRX.
“The work of our Auto Theft Unit, alongside our partners throughout the state, sends a loud and resounding message: there is no place for vehicle theft in Florida,” said Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister. “These individuals not only conspired to commit a continuous pattern of crime but were deriving substantial profits from their activity. Our detectives and deputies conducted a thorough investigation and held these criminals accountable for their actions.”
“This organized crime ring terrorized car dealerships stealing 30 new vehicles from 20 lots in 12 different Florida counties,” said Attorney General Ashley Moody. “While they operated fast, they didn’t have enough gas to outrun the law, and now that HCSO has put the brakes on their operation—my Statewide Prosecutors will ensure they pay for their multimillion dollar crime spree.”
Four of the six were arrested in Hillsborough County, and five received RICO violations. Those arrested are:
16-year-old Christion Rafael Garcia:
- Grand Theft Motor Vehicle (x16)
- Grand Theft $100,000 or More (x4)
21-year-old Rafael Edward Garcia:
- RICO Violation
- RICO Conspiracy or Endeavor
- Grand Theft Motor Vehicle (x6)
- Grand Theft $100,000 or More (x3)
22-year-old Bisma Fayyaz Sial (arrested in Pasco County)
- RICO Violation
- RICO Conspiracy or Endeavor
- Grand Theft Motor Vehicle (x6)
- Grand Theft $100,000 or More (x2)
17-year-old Adriel Fabian Mendez Arroyo:
- RICO Violation
- RICO Conspiracy or Endeavor
- Grand Theft Motor Vehicle (x3)
- Grand Theft $100,000 or More
18-year-old Enzo Prado Oliveira:
- RICO Violation
- RICO Conspiracy or Endeavor
- Grand Theft Motor Vehicle (x13)
- Grand Theft $100,000 or More (x3)
There was one subject outstanding that detectives were working to locate.
This investigation is still ongoing, according to local law enforcement.
