NEW YORK – Authorities have dismantled a motorcycle theft ring they say specialized in stealing high-end bikes off New York City streets in 30 seconds flat.
Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly and District Attorney Cyrus Vance announced the enterprise corruption and other charges on Thursday against 33 people.
A 17-month investigation revealed the defendants stole more than 60 motorcycles that were resold on a black market in the Caribbean.
Kelly says the bandits would drive a van with the rear seat removed. Then they'd pull up next to parked bikes and lift them inside.
He says the maneuver took "no more than 30 seconds."
Authorities say the ring also trafficked in illegal guns in Harlem.
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