From Road & Track · Stephen Rivers · · 1m
Drug Cartels Steal U.S. Rental Cars for Luxury Fleets
Mexican cartels steal U.S. rental cars to build armored luxury fleets without legal consequences.
In brief
Mexican cartels steal U.S. rental cars to build armored luxury fleets without legal consequences. Mexican drug cartels are stealing U.S. rental vehicles to create armored luxury fleets and fighting machines, with recovery efforts hindered by legal delays and corruption. Originally reported by Road & Track.
Drug Cartels Steal U.S. Rental Cars
Mexican drug cartels are stealing U.S. rental cars to build luxury fleets and armored trucks without paying for them.
Popular Vehicle Targets
Cadillac Escalades and BMW SUVs are favored by cartel leaders, while Ford Raptors and heavy-duty Rams are used for armored modifications.
How Cartels Operate
Cartels use social media to rent vehicles, purchase damage waivers, and leave keys inside for thefts across the border.
Recovery Challenges
Rental companies face up to nine days before reporting thefts, and California law prohibits tracking vehicles until overdue.
Consequence for Cartels
Cartels are stocking garages with expensive armored vehicles, making recovery efforts increasingly difficult.
The short version
Mexican drug cartels are stealing U.S. rental vehicles to create armored luxury fleets and fighting machines, with recovery efforts hindered by legal delays and corruption.
