Easton Man Part of a National Car Theft Ring: Feds

EASTON, CT — A local man was named today in a complaint charging he was part of a national stolen car ring.

Steven Klein, of Easton, was one of seven men who allegedly siole luxury cars and then used a criminal network to move and obscure the stolen assets. The operation involved approximately 60 cars valued at around $3.1 million.

U.S. Attorney Geoffrey S. Berman said: "They stole from rightful owners and used a criminal network of thieves, fraudsters, and forgers to line their pockets, all while driving themselves around in stolen Lamborghinis, Range Rovers, and other pilfered prizes. With our partners at the FBI and the State Police, we have slapped a boot onto these fast-paced heists, and will now tow the defendants off to justice."

Klein and associates were arrested Friday and charged with conspiracy and the possession, sale, and transportation of stolen cars. Klein and three of the defendants will be presented in White Plains federal court. The other three defendants were arrested and will be presented before federal judges in Florida, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island.

FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge William F. Sweeney Jr. stated: "As alleged, these individuals conspired to steal property, defraud state and local authorities, and unwittingly involve private citizens in an auto-theft ring spanning the country. This kind of criminal activity undermines public confidence and destabilizes communities. Thanks to the diligence and hard work by law enforcement, these arrests have put the brakes on this criminal enterprise."