East Bay Car Thieves Strike Again: Stolen Vehicles in 30 Seconds

UPDATE: East Bay authorities are grappling with a surge in car thefts as a group of thieves employs a legal gadget to steal vehicles in as little as 30 seconds. In a shocking series of events, these thieves have brazenly targeted local stores, stealing thousands of dollars in merchandise and wreaking havoc in Oakland.

Just last month, on September 2, 2023, a stolen black Dodge Durango was used in two separate break-ins at local stores, where thieves smashed through storefronts, making off with cash, lottery tickets, and other items. Following their crime spree, police managed to arrest one suspect, 18-year-old Raul Chapina-Gonzalez, who now faces multiple charges including second-degree robbery and burglary.

Authorities report that during a raid on Chapina-Gonzalez’s home, they discovered key fobs and a key reprogramming device—tools that have become essential for car thieves across California. These reprogrammers, available for purchase online, allow thieves to unlock and start vehicles in mere seconds, posing a significant threat to car owners.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is raising alarms about the misuse of this technology. They advise car owners to consult manufacturers for ways to secure their vehicles against such devices. Despite this warning, thefts continue to escalate.

The investigation into Chapina-Gonzalez has widened, linking him and others to a potential auto theft ring known as the Baine Gang, notorious for targeting high-end vehicles for resale. Evidence suggests Chapina-Gonzalez was actively listing stolen cars for sale on social media, boasting about his exploits with slang references to stolen vehicles.

Authorities have also connected him to a string of violent incidents. In 2023, he was previously investigated for his involvement in a carjacking that left a woman injured. The gang’s activities have led to multiple recent thefts in Union City, including an alarming incident where suspects threatened a car owner with guns.

As of now, 176,230 cars were reported stolen across California last year, with the CHP highlighting that Alameda County ranks second in auto thefts, trailing only Los Angeles County. The situation is dire, prompting the introduction of a new law—AB 486, effective in January 2024—which will classify key reprogrammers as burglary tools, potentially making their possession a misdemeanor.

The ripple effects of these crimes extend beyond mere statistics. Local residents are left feeling unsafe as their vehicles become prime targets. Authorities urge everyone to take preventive measures, such as parking in secure areas and utilizing steering wheel locks to deter thieves.

The East Bay community must remain vigilant as police continue to investigate this growing trend. With technology evolving, the fight against car theft is becoming more challenging. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.