Car Theft Ring Hits Sparta: Police

SPARTA, NJ — A car theft ring is brewing in Sparta, police say, and thieves are using technology to pick their targets.

Three cars have been stolen in Sparta in the past two weeks, the most recent being on Saturday when a 2016 Mercedes Benz GLA 350 was stolen out of a driveway. It was last seen at 8 p.m. the night before. Police said the car was unlocked with the key fob left inside. The resident also told police her wallet with credit cards, license and cash was inside the car.

The thieves tried to use the credit cards later that day in Edison, police said.

Sparta police believe these thefts could be related to a criminal enterprise operating out of Newark, and are using an app to located key fobs. They believe the ring is hitting Sparta between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m. Police said all the stolen cars have been unlocked with key fobs left inside.

Police caution that the car thieves are "professional criminals," and ask that residents do not confront them. Anyone who sees anything suspicious should call 911.

Sparta police are working with the Stolen Vehicle Task Force in Newark, and have increased late night neighborhood checks.

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