KPRC 2 has reported extensively on serial fraudsters, taking a deep dive into their elaborate scheme of recruiting people to help them buy vehicles from area dealerships using fake or stolen identification cards.

The Houston Police Department’s Auto Theft Division’s Vehicle Fraud Unit has been so successful in stopping accused thieves before they’re able to purchase a vehicle using bogus information, that law enforcement agencies from across Texas are now taking notice.

His name is Jerod Atkins but that’s not the name Houston police say he used when he tried to buy an $85,000 brand new truck from a local dealership using a stolen identity.

HOUSTON – Houston police tracked down a serial fraud suspect tied to more than 1,400 cases in several states and cities, including Houston. Police said Jarius Bell of Ruston, of Louisiana, is connected to at least three cases of vehicle fraud in the Houston area. Bell connected to vehicle fraud cases in Houston, Humble and SpringNot long after his release from jail, Sgt. “You’ll find that in higher premiums, you’ll find that in higher prices for vehicles, you’ll find it in higher interest rates,” Schlosser said. So far this year, Houston police have made 29 separate arrests and prevented $1.23 million in vehicle fraud.