The killing of Philadelphia police officer Richard Mendez at a Philadelphia International Airport parking garage two years ago was connected to an auto theft ring that crossed state lines, New Jersey officials say.

And now, 13 people have been indicted in connection with that theft ring — including the three men charged in Mendez's 2023 murder. The group members are facing charges of racketeering, weapons offenses, promoting organized street crime, theft and conspiracy.

Law enforcement officials allege the group stole over 40 cars from 2021 to 2024, targeting homes, car dealerships and parking garages. The break-ins and thefts happened in the same manner: the back window would be broken with screwdrivers, wrenches or bolt cutters, and a key reprogrammer would be used to drive the veh

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