Police: Laptop Used To Reprogram, Steal More Than 100 Cars
HOUSTON (AP) — Houston police say they've arrested two men accused of using pirated computer software to steal more than 100 vehicles that likely ended up in Mexico.
Authorities say 24-year-old Michael Arce and 22-year-old Jesse Zelaya focused on new Jeep and Dodge vehicles, which attract big money on the black market in Mexico. The men allegedly used a laptop computer to reprogram the targeted vehicles' electronic security so their key worked.
Arce's lawyer didn't return a message seeking comment Friday. Court records show Zelaya doesn't yet have an attorney. Both men have court appearances Wednesday.
Both were arrested last weekend driving a stolen Jeep Grand Cherokee. Police say their months-long investigation was aided by home-surveillance video showing someone with a laptop walking up to a parked Jeep and driving away minutes later.
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