By Gina Yarbrough
Carlsbad, CA–A multi-agency investigation into a series of Jeep thefts across San Diego County led to the arrest of three suspects believed to be involved in an organized auto theft ring, according to the Carlsbad Police Department.
Authorities said law enforcement agencies throughout the county have seen a significant increase in thefts involving newer-model Jeep vehicles. Since August 2025, at least 12 Jeep thefts have been reported in Carlsbad, most occurring during overnight hours. Two additional thefts were reported in the city in early May.
Investigators utilized Carlsbad’s Automated License Plate Reader system and other investigative techniques to identify a suspect vehicle believed to be linked to most of the thefts. Detectives also determined that stolen Jeeps, along with the suspect vehicle, were frequently driven into Mexico shortly after the crimes occurred.
On June 4, members of the Carlsbad Police Department and the San Diego County Regional Auto Theft Task Force launched a coordinated surveillance operation targeting the suspect vehicle and individuals believed to be part of an organized auto theft crew.
After several hours of surveillance, detectives spotted a Jeep in the Hillcrest area of San Diego that they believed had just been stolen by the suspects. When officers attempted a traffic stop, the driver allegedly refused to pull over and led authorities on a pursuit southbound on Interstate 5 at speeds reaching approximately 100 miles per hour.
The chase continued into Chula Vista, where the stolen Jeep exited the freeway. The pursuit came to an end near the intersection of H Street and Broadway after the driver lost control of the vehicle, causing it to roll over.
The driver, identified as 29-year-old Jesus Lupian of San Diego, was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. Following his release, Lupian was booked into the San Diego Central Jail on charges including vehicle theft, felony evading, conspiracy to commit vehicle theft, and possession of burglary tools.
Shortly after Lupian’s arrest, Carlsbad police officers stopped the original suspect vehicle identified during the investigation. Two additional suspects, Omar Quezada, 22, and Antonio Sanchez, 24, both residents of Mexico, were taken into custody.
Quezada and Sanchez were arrested on suspicion of vehicle theft, conspiracy to commit vehicle theft, and possession of burglary tools. Both were booked into the Vista Detention Facility.
Authorities said the arrests demonstrate the effectiveness of regional collaboration and technology-driven investigations in disrupting organized vehicle theft operations. Authorities are encouraging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
