MICHIGAN — Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has announced the arrest and arraignment of four additional suspects linked to a massive car theft ring operating across Southeast Michigan. The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation that began in May 2024, uncovering a criminal organization responsible for the theft of over 400 vehicles across Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw, and Wayne counties.
According to Nessel, the group is believed to have targeted new vehicle storage lots, car dealerships, parking lots, and individual residences, executing thefts in more than a dozen incidents throughout 2024. The stolen vehicles were then allegedly sold at deeply discounted prices on the black market to buyers seeking unregistered cars.
Criminal Activity and Violent Methods
The criminal ring is also suspected of using counter-surveillance tactics to evade capture, allowing them to steal vehicles quickly and efficiently. In some cases, the thieves reportedly used violence, including ramming security vehicles, if confronted during the thefts.
Ongoing Investigation and Arrests
The investigation into the ring has been spearheaded by the Troy Police Department since August 2023. The Troy Police joined forces with the FORCE Team in early 2024 to dismantle the expansive operation. The investigation has been supported by several local law enforcement agencies, including the Michigan State Police, Detroit Police, and local police departments in cities such as Auburn Hills, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Dearborn, Detroit, Farmington Hills, and others.
On January 2, 2025, law enforcement executed four arrest warrants, leading to the arrest of four suspects. Authorities also seized a large quantity of electronic key fobs and cash during the operation.
The Suspects
The arrested individuals have been charged with conducting a criminal enterprise, a felony that could carry a 20-year sentence. Additional charges include receiving and concealing stolen vehicles. The suspects are:
Davonta Jones, 31, of Detroit — Charged with eight counts of receiving and concealing stolen motor vehicles.
Donovan Tucker, 22, of Detroit — Charged with eight counts of receiving and concealing stolen motor vehicles.
Davion Tucker, 21, of Detroit — Charged with seven counts of receiving and concealing stolen motor vehicles.
Timothy Bell, 23, of Detroit — Charged with ten counts of receiving and concealing stolen motor vehicles.
Court Proceedings
All four suspects were arraigned on January 3, 2025. Jones, Donovan Tucker, and Davion Tucker appeared in the 19th District Court in Dearborn, where each was given a $500,000 cash/surety bond. They are scheduled for a probable cause conference on January 17, 2025.
Timothy Bell was arraigned in the 1st District Court in Monroe and was also given a $500,000 cash/surety bond. His probable cause conference is scheduled for January 14, 2025.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities expect more charges as the case continues to develop.