“Operation Escalading Switch” Dismantles Major Vehicle Theft Ring in Phoenix Metro

Photo Courtesy of AZDPS

Staff Reporter | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)

Published June 19th, 2025

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PHOENIX, AZ – The Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) has announced the successful takedown of a large-scale, organized vehicle theft ring through “Operation Escalading Switch,” a coordinated enforcement initiative spearheaded by the Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force (VTTF).

On Tuesday, June 17, VTTF members and supporting agencies executed search warrants at seven locations across the Phoenix Valley, leading to the recovery of 29 stolen vehicles—many of them high-end models—valued at nearly $2.5 million. Authorities also seized weapons, cash, and other criminal proceeds.

According to investigators, the theft ring specialized in stealing luxury vehicles, quickly altering VINs, and listing the cars for rent on the Turo car-sharing platform. Some stolen vehicles were posted within a week of being taken, and profits were traced to financial accounts in the U.S., Mexico, and the Middle East.

Arrested Suspects:

Ali Ahmad, 29, of Glendale, AZ
Delia Rocha, 32, of Glendale, AZ
Mario Garcia Rodriguez, 33, of Glendale, AZ

All three face multiple felony charges related to auto theft, fraud, and trafficking of stolen property.

“This operation is a testament to the effectiveness of collaborative law enforcement,” said Colonel Jeffrey Glover, Director of AZDPS. “We are committed to protecting Arizona’s communities, and this takedown sends a strong message to those engaged in organized crime.”

Participating Agencies:

Surprise PD, Goodyear PD, Mesa PD, Phoenix PD, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, Scottsdale PD, Tucson PD, Marana PD, Pima County Sheriff’s Office, ADOT, Arizona Auto Theft Authority, National Insurance Crime Bureau, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, and the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office.

Special thanks were extended to Turo for their cooperation during the investigation.

The AZDPS Vehicle Theft Task Force is supported by an annual grant from the Arizona Auto Theft Authority (AATA) and works year-round to combat vehicle theft through enforcement, prosecution, and public education.

📸 Images show law enforcement in action during the takedown, multiple suspects in custody, and high-value stolen vehicles recovered. Photos courtesy of AZDPS.