GRAPEVINE, Texas — A five-month investigation into a large-scale vehicle theft operation across North Texas has resulted in the arrest of five suspects and the recovery of stolen vehicles, firearms, cash, and thousands of vehicle parts, according to the Grapevine Police Department.
The investigation began Jan. 29, 2026, after officers responded to a report of a stolen vehicle from the Embassy Suites.
Police said overnight patrol officers tracked the vehicle using traffic camera technology and successfully recovered it.
During the investigation, detectives discovered the stolen vehicle had license plates swapped with another vehicle. Investigators later connected those stolen plates to multiple additional stolen vehicles through the use of license plate reader technology.
Authorities said detectives spent the next several months serving search warrants at homes, storage units, and suspected chop shops connected to the theft ring.
Investigators recovered thousands of vehicle parts linked to more than 30 stolen vehicles, with officials believing additional stolen vehicles may still be connected to the operation.
Police also recovered several VIN-swapped vehicles and an unreported stolen vehicle allegedly being used to facilitate additional thefts throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
According to investigators, officers additionally seized large amounts of cash and recovered stolen firearms during the operation.
Authorities estimate the total value of vehicles tied to the organization at approximately $1.6 million.
With assistance from the Irving Police Department SWAT and Denton County authorities, five suspects were arrested.
Each suspect faces charges of Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity and Theft of Property Over $300,000.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing and additional vehicles may be linked to the theft ring.
