A group that stole nearly $2.5 million worth of vehicles in the state of Florida has been busted by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO).

Between March 18, 2024, and August 18, 2024, the group was found to be responsible for thefts from multiple car dealerships in Columbia, Pasco, Pinellas, Alachua, Marion, Polk, Manatee, Sarasota, Lee, Collier, and Hillsborough Counties.

“Operation Family Affair” centered around brothers Rafael and Christion Garcia, both of whom have lengthy criminal histories, according the HCSO, playing a role in the theft of more than 30 vehicles from more than 20 dealerships beginning in December 2023.

By smashing a window or sunroof to gain access to the vehicle, a programmer was then used 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 cars stolen were high-end Chrysler models such as Charger Hellcat and Challenger Hellcat. Other high-end models targeted by these individuals included Corvettes, 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 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.”

Four of the six were arrested in Hillsborough County on September 19, 2024. Five received RICO violations.

“This organized crime ring terrorized car dealerships stealing 30 new vehicles from 20 lots in 12 different Florida counties. 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,” said Attorney General Ashley Mood