A dozen people were arrested in Massachusetts in a large-scale car theft operation, and an additional person is wanted on an outstanding warrant.
The Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office, alongside state and local law enforcement agencies, conducted “Operation Hellcat,” a year-long investigation into a high-end car theft enterprise. The operation culminated on December 12, 2024, with the execution of search warrants across 12 locations in Brockton, Fall River, and North Easton. The theft ring is accused of stealing 63 vehicles, valued at over $2.6 million, using advanced key fob programming devices, specifically the Autel program, to gain access and drive away with the cars. This technology allegedly allowed the suspects to create fully functional keys within minutes, facilitating the break-ins. Law enforcement also discovered illegal firearms, including parts for machine gun conversion, during the raids.
Defendants and Charges
James Senat, 19, of Brockton
Charges: Possession of a machine gun, possession of a large-capacity feeding device (2 counts), possession of a firearm without a License To Carry (LTC), possession of ammunition without an LTC, breaking and entering a motor vehicle at night (4 counts), receiving a stolen motor vehicle.
Bail: $100,000
Andrick Semedo, 20, of Brockton
Charges: Possession of ammunition without an LTC; separate warrant for breaking and entering a motor vehicle at night (2 counts) and receiving a stolen motor vehicle (3 counts).
Bail: $50,000 (revoked due to previous charges).
Paulo Semedo, 58, of Brockton
Charges: Possession of a firearm without an LTC.
Bail: $1,000
Kevin DaGraca, 18, of Brockton
Charges: Possession of a large-capacity feeding device (2 counts), possession of a firearm capable of accepting a large-capacity feeding device, possession of ammunition without an LTC.
Bail: $50,000
Jason Brito, 20, of Brockton
Charges: Possession of a firearm without an LTC (2 counts), possession of ammunition without an LTC, possession of burglarious tools; warrants for breaking and entering a motor vehicle at night and conspiracy.
Bail: $50,000
Nelshon Pires, 19, of Brockton
Charges: Possession of burglarious tools, receiving a stolen motor vehicle (3 counts).
Bail: $50,000 (revoked due to previous charges).
Jalen Clarke-Cox, 19, of Brockton
Charges: Breaking and entering a motor vehicle at night (4 counts), receiving stolen property under $1,200, receiving a stolen motor vehicle, possession of burglarious tools.
Bail: $5,000
Derek Gaillot, 18, of Brockton
Charges: Receiving a stolen motor vehicle (3 counts).
Bail: $5,000
Claudio Medina, 20, of Brockton
Charges: Breaking and entering a motor vehicle at night, larceny over $1,200; additional pending cases in Fall River District Court and Brockton District Court.
Bail: $5,000
Jaydin Rodrigues, 20, of Brockton
Charges: Receiving a stolen motor vehicle.
Released on his own recognizance.
Andy Gomes, 23, of Brockton
Charges: Pending charge for possession of burglarious tools; warrant for unarmed robbery and larceny over $1,200.
Micaiah Taylor, 21, of North Easton
Charges: Receiving a stolen motor vehicle (3 counts).
Bail: $5,000
Complexity of Motor Vehicle Theft and Severity of Punishments
Motor vehicle theft in Massachusetts is a complex crime with varying degrees of severity. Charges can include stealing a vehicle, receiving stolen property, and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. A defendant cannot be convicted of both theft and receiving the same vehicle in a single case, which means prosecuting these charges can be complex and an experienced motor vehicle theft attorney can advocate successfully in your favor.
Motor vehicle theft charges in Massachusetts can be complex with significant penalties. If you are facing any charges related to motor vehicle theft you will require the support of an experienced motor vehicle theft attorney. On the higher end, penalties for motor vehicle theft can result in up to 15 years in state prison, fines up to $15,000 and mandatory restitution for financial losses incurred by the victim
Repeat offenders face even harsher consequences, including mandatory minimum sentences. These severe penalties highlight the importance of a well-prepared legal defense.
The Importance of Legal Expertise
Successfully defending against motor vehicle theft charges requires the guidance of an experienced Massachusetts motor vehicle theft attorney. Attorneys can:
– Challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove that a defendant knew the vehicle was stolen
– Navigate complex laws and distinctions surrounding motor vehicle theft
– Negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, especially for repeat offenders
Given the severity of punishments and the complexity of the legal system, individuals facing such charges are strongly encouraged to consult a skilled attorney to protect their rights and build a robust defense. At Dhar Law, LLP, we have decades of experience defending complex criminal cases in state courts and federal courts. Our deep knowledge of the law and our negotiating skills can often help people accused of serious crimes to avoid some of the more severe punishments pushed for by the prosecution. We work hard to defend your rights and we communicate clearly with all our clients to arrive at the best strategy. Our firm speaks all major languages including Spanish, Portuguese and Mandarin. Please contact us today to speak to a member of our motor vehicle defense team.
