The Montgomery County Police Department recently highlighted a 2025 investigation by the department’s Auto Crime Enforcement Unit that led to the dismantling of a large-scale auto theft operation in Gaithersburg.
The investigation resulted in the arrests of Jessy Alexander Cruz and Claudia Stacie Herrera after detectives uncovered more than 17 stolen vehicles and auto parts valued at over $247,000. The case began on April 7, 2025, when detectives located a stolen vehicle near Frederick Road and Shady Grove Road, leading to a broader multi-jurisdictional investigation.
Search warrants executed at a residence and storage unit in Gaithersburg led to the recovery of 10 stolen vehicles, three stolen motorcycles, and additional stolen auto parts. Police said the case demonstrates the importance of proactive investigations in disrupting organized auto theft operations and noted that vehicle theft is often connected to broader criminal activity.
In 2025, detectives with the Montgomery County Department of Police – Major Crimes Division, Auto Crime Enforcement Unit shut down a large-scale auto theft operation in Gaithersburg.
Jessy Alexander Cruz and Claudia Stacie Herrera were arrested following a multi-jurisdictional… pic.twitter.com/lK8EJm2gVP
— Montgomery County Department of Police (@mcpnews) May 28, 2026
