21 Charged in Chicago Auto Theft Ring

August 1, 2012

Investigators in Chicago, Ill., say they’ve cracked an auto theft ring that targeted high-end vehicles and sold them for much less than they were worth.

Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez and Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White on Monday announced that 21 people have been charged in the case. They’re accused of stealing more than 200 vehicles worth $4 million, including BMWs, Land Rovers and Cadillacs.

Investigators say the ring stole used lease vehicles and changed the vehicle identification numbers to get titles before selling the cars.

Some vehicles worth $50,000 were sold for just $10,000.

Authorities are urging drivers to investigate thoroughly before buying used cars. White says the lesson learned is that a deal that looks too good to be true usually is.

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