⏱ 2 min read
A major international cell phone theft ring has been busted, with Raimond Cabrera De Leon, 33, of New York, admitting his role in the conspiracy. The ring, which operated in the US and abroad, targeted cell phone shipments, stealing packages from FedEx and other carriers, causing losses of over $1.5 million. The thefts occurred over an unknown period, with De Leon’s guilty plea entered on July 16, 2026, in Newark federal court. The motive behind the thefts was financial gain, with the stolen devices sold for profit.
According to court documents, the ring used automated computer scripts to identify valuable packages to steal, as well as bribing corrupt employees of a major US cellular provider to obtain confidential customer information. The ring operated in layers, with some members, known as ‘dispatchers,’ selling delivery information, and others, known as ‘runners,’ purchasing this information and stealing the packages. De Leon operated a ‘fence’ location in the Bronx, where stolen devices were sold.
The investigation was led by Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI, and the New York City Police Department. De Leon faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or twice the value of the gain or loss, whichever is greater.
The case highlights the growing problem of organized crime groups targeting vulnerable supply chains, using sophisticated methods to steal valuable goods. The guilty plea is a significant victory for law enforcement, demonstrating their commitment to disrupting and dismantling these criminal networks.
📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Organized Crime
- Defendant: New Jersey
- Location: NJ
- Source: DOJ Press Release
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