NEW YORK — Federal, state, and city law enforcement officials announced on Nov. 14 the unsealing of a complaint charging eight men in connection with a multi-year car theft operation in The Bronx and Queens, involving more than 100 stolen vehicles worth millions.
The defendants—Pedro Manuel Lopez Marte (38), Jerry Lopez Paulino (33), Sergio Diaz Ramirez (35), Pedro Rojas (62), Justin Martha (24), Erick Rojas Cruz (27), Jose Ferreira (48), and Ronald Arias Santos (30)—face charges including conspiracy to possess and sell stolen vehicles, wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
Authorities allege the group targeted Hondas, Acuras, and Jeeps from March 2022 through November 2025, storing the stolen cars in “lay-up spots” to evade detection. They reportedly altered Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) and obtained falsified vehicle history reports, then sold the cars, often starting transactions on social media before meeting buyers in person.
Six defendants were arrested on Nov. 13 and presented in Manhattan federal court. Each faces up to five years for conspiracy to sell stolen vehicles and up to 20 years for wire fraud-related charges.
“New Yorkers have every right to expect safety and security on our streets and in our homes,” said U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton. “This investigation reinforces that those who prey on law-abiding citizens will be brought to justice.”
Officials from the NYPD, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York, and NYS Police praised the multi-year investigation, highlighting the collaborative effort to dismantle the ring.
Previously, seven Bronx men were charged in April 2025 with a $6.6 million luxury car theft operation in New Jersey, which involved shipping stolen vehicles to West Africa.
The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
