The Unseen Side of Car Rentals: A Crime Ring Exposed

A recent case has brought to light a hidden underworld of crime-tourism, where car rentals played a key role. At the center of this operation were Juan Carlos Thola-Duran and Ana Maria Arriagada, a couple from Sand Canyon. They ran a car rental business called Driver Power Rentals (DPR) in Van Nuys, which was allegedly used to facilitate theft across the United States.

The Extensive Operation

The couple is accused of helping South American visitors target homes and businesses for theft. These thefts often led to credit card fraud, with stolen cards used to buy goods that were then shipped overseas. The operation was extensive, with hundreds of criminal acts tied to the conspiracy.

The Role of Miguel Angel Barajas

Miguel Angel Barajas, a 59-year-old from Northridge, recently pleaded guilty to his role in this scheme. He was part of a larger network that included structuring financial transactions to avoid detection, money laundering, and wire fraud. Barajas' job was to act as a "fence," helping to move and sell the stolen merchandise.

The Scope of the Investigation

The Ventura County Sheriff's office has linked over 130 theft suspects to DPR since 2019. This case highlights the complex ways crime can be organized and the importance of vigilance in all aspects of business, even something as seemingly straightforward as car rentals.

The Consequences

Thola-Duran and Arriagada have already pleaded guilty to four counts. They are facing significant prison time, with Thola-Duran looking at around eight to ten years, and Arriagada facing a potential sentence of 13 to 17 years. The couple is also facing asset forfeiture of approximately $23.9 million.

Barajas is not currently in custody, but his sentencing report is expected to be completed by his next court appearance in November. This case serves as a reminder that crime can take many forms and that even everyday businesses can be used for illicit purposes.