A New Jersey man was charged this week in connection with his alleged supervision of an auto theft ring. Authorities have reported that the ring is believed to have stolen over 100 vehicles worth more than $550,000. According to the Attorney General’s office, the man entered a plea on Friday in response to a charge of first-degree promotion of organized street crime and other charges.
It has been reported that the alleged theft ring operated a “chop shop.” An official from the office of the Attorney General has outlined the procedure used to steal and market the vehicles. A car would first be stolen. It would then be stripped of valuable parts and the parts would then be sold. Afterwards, each car would be scrapped.
The vehicles targeted would often belong to tradesmen such as plumbers, electricians and painters. Valuable tools found inside the vehicles could then also be sold. As a result, the contractors and tradesmen who were targeted would be left in the unenviable position of trying to earn a living without the tools of their trade. In the estimation of the Attorney General’s office, the value of the stolen tools was often more valuable than the vehicle.
Theft charges in New Jersey carry serious penalties. In this case, the man charged is facing a prison term of up to 15 years.
A criminal defense attorney may be able to help a person facing serious charges. An attorney could evaluate the evidence and may be able to formulate a course of action for defense. That may mean negotiating a plea agreement that reduces possible fines or imprisonment. In addition, an experienced attorney may make every attempt to make sure his or her client is treated fairly throughout the proceedings.