Howard County Police Arrest 13 Suspects in 130 Vehicle Thefts
Investigators recovered guns and key cloning devices while charging a group of mostly minors for stealing cars between May and July.
By Nia Foster ·
Howard County police have arrested 13 people in connection with 130 reported vehicle thefts that occurred over the past several months. A department news release confirmed the arrests on Thursday, detailing a crackdown that focused on a surge in car stealings during the summer months.
The majority of the thefts happened between May 1 and July 31. During that period, suspects targeted specific brands, including Hyundais, Kias, Hondas, Acuras, Chevrolets, and Dodges. From August 1 through October 31, authorities recorded an additional 77 vehicle theft reports in the county.
Police stated that the 13 suspects, most of whom are under the age of 18, are responsible for at least 35 of those vehicle thefts. The group included David Hernandez-Hernandez, 18, of Baltimore; Nicholas Hernandez, 18, of Elkridge; four 17-year-olds; five 16-year-olds; and two 15-year-olds. Detectives are currently reviewing evidence to link the suspects to additional cases in Howard County and neighboring jurisdictions.
Investigators recovered three guns and seven key reprogramming devices during the investigation. These devices generate keys and clone transponders to facilitate vehicle thefts. Police noted that the suspects often operated in small groups with distinct targets. One group focused on Hondas and Acuras along Washington Boulevard, while another targeted higher-end Chevrolet and Dodge models.
According to the release, the stolen vehicles served various purposes for the thieves. They were used to commit other crimes, sold, stripped for parts, or used for joyriding. "Steering wheel locks are the most effective vehicle theft deterrent; vehicles equipped with properly secured wheel locks rarely are stolen," police said in the statement.
The Howard County Police Department will hold a free vehicle identification number etching event on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is open to the public at the Southern District Station located at 11226 Scaggsville Road in Laurel. The etching process takes only minutes and does not require an appointment.
Officers will also distribute a limited number of free steering wheel locks to Hyundai and Kia owners at the event. Residents can contact the auto theft unit at 410-313-1035 for more information about the prevention measures.
