TRENTON, N.J. (AP) -- New Jersey authorities on Friday indicted 12 men they said formed a cargo theft ring that stole $1.5 million in bedding, bicycle parts, perfume, fish oil supplements and other items over three years.

Trucks (Matt Cardy, Getty Images)
Trucks (Matt Cardy, Getty Images)
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The group members worked together in smaller teams to steal tractor trailers in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania between 2012 and 2015, storing the stolen items in warehouses and lots in New Jersey and New York, according to acting Attorney General John Hoffman.

The defendants face various charges including conspiracy, money laundering, theft, fencing, burglary and receiving stolen property. All 12 men are from northern New Jersey or New York.

"We tracked these alleged thieves across three states and hundreds of miles of highway to ensure that they were held accountable for the full scope of their crimes," said Hoffman, who credited the New Jersey State Police and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for their roles in the investigation.

According to the attorney general's office, the goods were stored at locations including a warehouse in Saddle Brook, a furniture store in Hillside and New York locations in Brooklyn and the Bronx.

Investigators say the stolen goods included more than $120,000 worth of catalytic converters; more than $23,000 worth of Guinness Stout beer; over $77,000 worth of Bell bicycle parts; $65,000 in bedding; $201,000 worth of clothing; and more than $143,000 worth of Nivea skin lotion.

Investigators also listed as stolen more than $151,000 worth of Goodyear tires; $80,000 worth of perfume; and $152,000 in fish oil capsules.

The defendants are schedule to be arraigned in Bergen County.

 

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