Southern California man sentenced to jail for auto theft crimes

A Los Angeles man was sentenced to jail for crimes he committed as part of an automobile theft ring.

Joel Quinonez, 23, of Compton, was a member of a ring of car thieves who stole vehicles across Los Angeles and Ventura counties, according to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office.

The thefts occurred in October and November 2024 and Quinonez and his accomplices would generally target newer-model vehicles, prosecutors said.

“In all instances, the thieves were able to steal the vehicles by using tools to gain electronic access to unlock and operate the vehicles,” court documents said.

After authorities conducted a search of the homes of Quinonez and an unidentified juvenile accomplice, both were arrested in connection with the crimes.

At the time the car thefts were committed, Quinonez was on probation in L.A. County for felony grand theft auto.

“This sentencing sends a clear message: Organized crime targeting our community will not go unanswered,” said Katherine Plante, a Ventura County District Attorney who prosecuted the case. “Auto theft rings prey on hardworking families, disrupt local businesses, and fuel broader criminal activity. This outcome reflects the tireless work of law enforcement and our commitment to holding perpetrators accountable.”

On Jan. 13, Quinonez pled guilty to one felony count of auto theft. On Feb. 11, he was sentenced to 16 months in the Ventura County Jail.