Brownsville Police Task Force Targets Auto Theft Ring; Lead Suspect Still At Large

Brownsville Police Task Force Targets Auto Theft Ring; Lead Suspect Still At Large
Orlando Gael Avila

The Brownsville Police South Texas Auto Theft Task Force continues its dedicated efforts to dismantle auto theft rings operating in the city. Despite recent arrests, the lead member of a notorious auto theft ring remains at large, posing an ongoing challenge to community safety.

Orlando Gael Davila, identified as the ring’s lead member, is currently wanted by authorities. Davila, instrumental in recruiting individuals for the criminal enterprise, notably enlisted the help of Carlos Ivan Ortegon and Mari Alberto Garza to steal GMC Sierras and Chevy Silverados in the lower Rio Grande Valley (RGV). Ortegon and Garza have since been apprehended, but the task force emphasizes the need to locate and bring Davila to justice.

The auto theft network, driven by the demand for GMC Sierras and Chevy Silverados in Mexico, persists as a concern. However, the commitment of law enforcement to combatting auto theft and ensuring community safety remains steadfast. Authorities urge residents to stay vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and take measures to secure their vehicles.

Recent arrests include 20-year-old Carlos Ivan Ortegon, apprehended on November 9, 2023, in McAllen. Ortegon faces charges ranging from Theft of Motor Vehicle to Aggravated Robbery, reflecting the severity of the crimes committed.

Similarly, 18-year-old Mari Alberto Garza was arrested on October 26, 2023, following a dramatic sequence of events. Brownsville Auto Theft Agents, patrolling areas with reported thefts, encountered a suspicious vehicle matching the description of one involved in multiple auto thefts. A subsequent pursuit ended when the suspect vehicle, a gray Dodge Ram driven by Garza, collided with a pole. Upon arrest, a loaded handgun was discovered in the vehicle.

Garza faces a litany of charges, including Theft of Motor Vehicle, Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity, Unlawful Use of Criminal Instrument, Tampering with Government Record, Evading Arrest with Motor Vehicle, and Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon.

The Brownsville Police Task Force emphasizes the critical role of community cooperation, urging residents to report any information that may lead to the apprehension of Orlando Gael Davila. The ongoing commitment to combatting auto theft remains a top priority for local law enforcement.

If you have any information on the whereabouts of the wanted individuals, submit your tip to www.p3tips.com or call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at 546-TIPS.