A Cuban resident in Houston, Texas, expressed his frustration on social media after discovering that his car, a Toyota, had been stripped of its wheels while parked.
"Look, this is a huge lack of respect; you only see this in Houston," exclaimed the affected Aldo Molina in a video shared on TikTok (@aldo.molina4), while showing the condition of his vehicle.
visibly upset, he pointed out the location of the theft: “This is in the condos over by Plaza América, here at 59, I don’t know what that’s called.”
The owner of the Toyota detailed the condition of his car: "Look at this, look, it’s a disgrace, all four [wheels], they took all four, just so you know."
As he walked around the vehicle, pointing out the damages it sustained, he added with sarcasm, “You don’t see this anywhere else, come on, come on, come over here so people can see it really well.”
The incident has sparked various reactions on social media, ranging from those who empathize with the victim to those who joke about the risks of leaving a vehicle without additional security measures.
Manuel Morales pointed out, “No, my friend, that doesn’t just happen here. It’s been happening ever since the scanning from Miami started coming down here. I’ve been here for many years, and I’ve never seen that in Houston.”
The internet user marinaperez2900 emphasized: “That didn’t happen in Houston, but in Florida, and it started to occur with the growth of the Cuban community.”
A person responding to the user Maxel emphasized, "That never happens in Hialeah,” to which Julio Capote replied, "Because the people from Hialeah moved to Houston."
A group of people questioned the authenticity of the video. The profile El mas tigre remarked, “For me, that car doesn't run; it's broken because the brake discs are more rusted than anything else.”
Another internet user added, "It's just the front part of the windshield that gives it away; that car has been there for a while."
Several comments suggested that the presence of Cubans has led to an increase in crime in some areas of the United States.
In Houston, for example, the police recently arrested three Cubans, alleged members of a gang accused of stealing cars worth over five million dollars at least from five airports in the United States.
The criminal network identified by authorities as the Cuban Auto Theft Group (CATG) is believed to include 14 other suspects who have not yet been arrested, according to court documents cited by the independent outlet CaféFuerte.
In October, a Miami resident from Cuba identified as Raúl Bello, 49 years old, was arrested on Tuesday by the Florida Highway Patrol for his alleged involvement in the theft of a refrigerated truck carrying frozen chicken valued at $100,000.
According to the police report, the stolen semi-trailer was valued at $80,000, while the cargo truck it was attached to was valued at $60,000, Local 10 reported.
Frequently Asked Questions About Car Wheel Theft in Houston
Why has the theft of car wheels increased in Houston?
The theft of car wheels in Houston has risen due to the presence of organized crime gangs, such as the Cuban Auto Theft Group (CATG). This group is primarily made up of Cubans and has been accused of stealing vehicles in several cities across the United States.
What security measures can be taken to protect a car in Houston?
To protect a car in Houston, it is advisable to use wheel chocks, install security alarms, and park in well-lit and monitored areas. Additionally, having insurance that covers theft and property damage is beneficial.
What reactions have these robberies generated in the Cuban community of Houston?
The robberies have sparked various reactions within the Cuban community in Houston. Some community members feel stigmatized by the association with crime, while others express their frustration and concern for the safety of their belongings.
How has the growth of the Cuban community affected crime in Houston?
The growth of the Cuban community has led to an increase in certain crimes, such as vehicle theft, according to some perceptions. However, it is important to note that not all members of the community are involved in criminal activities, and many contribute positively to the development of the city.
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