Thieves Use Cloned Keys To Steal Cars From Oklahoma City Dealerships

Thieves are finding new ways to steal cars, according to Oklahoma City police. They are now using cloned key fobs and driving cars away from local dealerships at all hours of the day. The latest case happened this month in northwest Oklahoma City.

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Cameras are always scanning the Battison Honda dealership, inside and out.

“We just want to let you know you’re recorded,” said Arti Brylev, Battison Honda co-owner.

That was how co-owners Arti Brylev and Courtney Battison knew they were ripped off twice. The first time was last September.

“Definitely looks like he has some locksmith experience,” said Brylev.

The suspect used a Slim Jim to unlock the car and then programmed a key fob in 30 minutes. The man drove the car through ditch and out of sight.

“Literally spent about an hour here,” said Brylev. “Created a key and got a new car I guess.”

The second time was Easter Sunday, and this time the suspect came back wearing a mask. The owners think it was the same man from last year.

“It looks that way,” said Brylev. “Similar posture, similar walk, similar build.”

The suspect could not drive the car off the lot that day but came back two days later.

“Came back Tuesday morning about 6 or 7 right when we open the gate,” said Brylev. “Got in the car and left.”

Police are investigating both cases. Investigators are not sure if the thefts involved the same person or two different people. 

“With every stolen vehicle we work, we do place it into our national crime data base,” said Sgt. Dillon Quirk, Oklahoma City Police Department. “So, if the vehicle is out there in circulation and an officer runs the tag or find that vehicle it will report as stolen.”

The business owners are offering an incentive to the public. 

“We will pay a $3,000 reward for the whereabouts or know any information that will help capture that gentleman,” said Brylev.

Brylev said car thieves using cloned keys first hit the east and west coasts hard during Covid. The trend is now making its way to Oklahoma.

If you recognize the man in the photos and video, police ask that you call the Crime Stoppers tip line at (405) 235-7300.