GARLAND, Texas — A months-long investigation has led to the arrest of five suspects accused of operating an organized criminal crew tied to at least 25 vehicle thefts and burglaries across Garland and surrounding cities, police said.
Investigators said the theft ring is linked to more than $62,000 in stolen property.
According to the Garland Police Department, the group targeted older model Chevrolet, GMC and Dodge trucks from the 1990s through early 2000s, as well as work vans.
Police said the suspects operated as a structured criminal crew with defined roles, carrying out thefts primarily during early morning hours.
The investigation began in late November 2025 after detectives identified one suspect during a vehicle theft investigation. As additional thefts occurred through December and into early 2026, investigators identified other suspects believed to be working together.
Police said coordinated efforts involving Criminal Investigations, Neighborhood Police Officers and Gang Unit investigators helped map the group’s operation.
Five people were arrested in early April. Those charged are:
- Mario Oder Hernandez, 31
- Taylor Baker, 33
- Cesar Ortega, 33
- Jonathan Yarzabal, 29
- Malcolm Faggett, 34
All five remained in custody at the Dallas County Jail as of April 20, according to police.
Authorities said charges include engaging in organized criminal activity, along with multiple counts involving motor vehicle theft, burglary of motor vehicles and theft of motor vehicle parts.
Police said the investigation remains active as detectives work to connect the suspects to additional cases.
