East Bay Duo Accused In $4M High-End Auto Theft Ring: CHP

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — Two Contra Costa County men have been arrested in connection with a multi-state auto theft ring targeting luxury vehicles, according to the California Highway Patrol. Melvin Zachery, 24, from Bay Point, and Pittsburg resident Dominique Mills, 38, are suspected of offenses including grand theft auto, conspiracy and illegal possession or sale of a vehicle identification number.

The arrests were the culmination of a years-long investigation by the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office and CHP's Golden Gate and Valley divisions of the suspected criminal enterprise.

"Investigators have found that these suspects target high-end vehicles and will follow victims home," Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton said Wednesday in a statement.

"The thefts occurred at car dealerships or at the victim's residence," Becton said. "We want the public to remain on alert and be aware of their surroundings."

Law enforcement agencies in at least 40 different jurisdictions were affected by the investigation, the CHP said.

Roughly 100 stolen vehicles valued at a total of $4 million were recovered across 13 California counties and several states, according to the CHP.

Mills is being held on $3.15-million bail at the Martinez jail, where Zachery is also being held in lieu of $3-million bail.

Investigators believe there may be other victims. They're asking anyone with additional information to call the Contra Costa County District Attorney's Office at 707-917-4491.

Bay City News Service contributed to this report.