How a pair of AirPods led police to stolen Ferrari worth Rs 5 crore in high-tech recovery
PTC News Desk: In a high-tech twist, a pair of AirPods proved instrumental in recovering a stolen Ferrari, valued at $575,000 (approximately Rs 4.81 crore), in Waterbury, Connecticut. The luxury car had been reported missing from Greenwich on September 16, and its recovery has drawn attention to the surprising role technology can play in modern-day crime-solving.
The Ferrari’s owner inadvertently left their AirPods inside the stolen vehicle, which enabled authorities to track the car using the location data from the wireless earbuds. The Waterbury Auto Theft Task Force used this information to trace the AirPods to a gas station on South Main Street, Waterbury.
Once the Waterbury Police Department identified the stolen Ferrari at the gas station, they attempted to apprehend the driver. However, the suspect managed to flee, leading police on a pursuit that ultimately helped identify the individuals responsible for the theft.
Police later tracked the suspects to a 2023 Acura, another stolen vehicle, this one taken from New York. Authorities arrested 22-year-old Dion Schontten and 19-year-old Keon Webster in connection with the crime.
An investigation revealed that the two men had been alternating driving the stolen Ferrari. Schontten, who already had a criminal history, faced additional charges related to motor vehicle theft, while Webster was charged with his seventh offence for auto theft.
Following their arrest, Schontten was initially held on a $300,000 bond, while Webster, due to his extensive criminal record, was held on a $1 million bond. Upon their court arraignment, both bonds were reduced. Schontten’s bond was lowered to $150,000, and Webster’s bond was reduced to $300,000.
Waterbury Police Chief Fernando Spagnolo expressed concern about Webster’s criminal past, noting, “Keon Webster is somebody we are very, very familiar with. As an adult, he has seven pending charges related to auto theft and other violent crimes.” His comments highlighted the frustration law enforcement faces with repeat offenders.
The Waterbury Police Department emphasized its commitment to holding such individuals accountable. "The arrest of Schontten and Webster, both with extensive criminal histories, demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that repeat offenders are held accountable so they do not continue to victimize our community," read an official statement.
Local residents have expressed relief following the arrests. Robert Stanziano, a resident of Waterbury, commented on the rising concerns of car thefts in the area, saying, “I drive something I don't think anybody wants to steal, hopefully. But I worry for other people.”
In light of the incident, Chief Spagnolo urged the public to be more vigilant with their belongings. He reminded residents, “We just don't live in that day and age anymore where we can leave our cars running to warm up or our cars running while we run into the store. Take care of your property. Just be mindful that if you don't, somebody else will.”
Authorities are continuing their investigation into whether Schontten and Webster may be involved in additional vehicle thefts in the area. The police department's efforts to curb auto thefts reflect their broader strategy to tackle rising crime rates, especially those linked to repeat offenders.
This case serves as a reminder of how even a simple item like a pair of AirPods can play an unexpected but crucial role in solving high-stakes crimes.
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- With inputs from agencies
