A major auto fraud operation has been shut down after a coordinated investigation spanning multiple states.

Authorities say a large-scale scheme was moving stolen vehicles from California to Houston, using fraudulent mechanic’s liens to legitimize and resell them.

The Houston Auto Crimes Task Force (HACTF), alongside the Houston Police Department’s Special Response Team (SRT), executed a search warrant at a residence on Windswept Lane on March 31.

Arrest Made:

35-year-old Talal Obeid was taken into custody at the scene.

What Was Found:

•9 exotic vehicles

•Cash and assets totaling over $900,000

•Evidence tied to a multi-state vehicle fraud operation

HACTF is made up of HPD Auto Theft Division detectives and partner agencies working together to combat organized auto crime across the region.

This bust highlights the growing sophistication of auto theft rings—and the coordinated efforts required to take them down.

: Houston Police Department