Minneapolis Car Break-Ins Linked to Felony Lane Gang: What You Need to Know

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Written By Blue & Gold NLR Team

 

 

MINNEAPOLIS — At least eight people in the Twin Cities metro area have fallen victim to smash-and-grab thefts from their cars, followed by check fraud. The FBI and other agencies are investigating these incidents as part of a possible organized crime ring.

In mid-July, Andrea returned to her car in Savage after a workout to find a shattered window and her purse stolen. I felt completely violated and was in shock, she said.

A similar incident happened at a Dayton Nature Center parking lot, where a mother had her purse stolen. In May, Karissa experienced a break-in outside her gym in Plymouth, where thieves smashed her car window and stole her purse, leaving other items behind.

Three months later, Andrea and Karissa discovered their cases were linked. They learned that checks from Andrea’s account had been used fraudulently. They wrote checks for over two grand, Andrea said.

Elk River police report ten theft and fraud cases from January to June, which they believe are connected to the Felony Lane Gang. This gang is known for targeting women’s cars, stealing purses with checkbooks and IDs, and using drive-thru bank lanes to cash stolen checks.

In December, three men and six accomplices were sentenced to federal prison for their role in this scheme. They used disguises to impersonate victims and cash stolen checks.

Victims like Andrea and Karissa now urge others to be cautious. I was naive about leaving things in my car, Karissa said. Police advise taking valuables with you or securely hiding them in your car, and always locking your doors.

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