In Katy, Texas, police have dismantled an alleged chop shop in North Harris County, resulting in the arrest of nine individuals suspected of stealing over $400,000 worth of cars.
The individuals facing charges related to the auto theft ring include Jose Alberto Vasquez (21), Efrain Felipe Rivas (21), Mario Cesar Caraza (28), Lorenzo Nathan Hernandez (21), Rene Castro (38), Alejandro Lumbreras (22), Jorge Alberto Sanchez (22), Nathan Castro (22), and Jeyson Gonzalez (23).
Sources familiar with the case revealed to that a Texas Ranger had his personal truck stolen in Katy, prompting the Katy Police Department to initiate an investigation. This inquiry ultimately led them to the alleged chop shop situated at 911 Hodgkins St.
Surveillance footage captured the moment Katy police and undercover investigators surrounded the shop around 9 p.m. on Wednesday.
Records indicate that Rene Castro, identified as the ringleader and organizer, has a lengthy criminal record and has been out on bond since 2021, facing similar allegations. This marks his sixth bond violation. Castro confessed to investigators that his 22-year-old son and the other suspects were involved in stealing cars and transporting them to the chop shop for resale or dismantling.
The auto theft ring targeted vehicles from various locations. While Houston has seen a slight decrease in homicides and violent crimes, auto thefts have seen a significant increase.
According to data from the Neighborhood Safety Tracker, auto thefts have risen by 13% compared to the previous year, with an average of 392 stolen cars reported weekly over the past 12 months.
Katy police for further details on the investigation, including whether their involvement would have been the same if the stolen vehicle belonged to a civilian rather than a Texas Ranger.
Katy police declined to comment, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
