HOWARD COUNTY, MD – Howard County police have apprehended Mateo Reyes, a 22-year-old resident of Adelphi, in connection with several airbag thefts across the county. Reyes faces charges for three incidents that occurred in October and one in April, marking a period since which police observed a significant uptick in similar crimes. Investigations are ongoing to determine Reyes’ involvement in additional thefts, with further charges anticipated.
Following Reyes’ arrest on February 23, there has been a noticeable cessation of airbag thefts in Howard County. Currently, Reyes is being held without bond. The focus of the thefts has predominantly been Honda vehicles, reflecting a broader national pattern where stolen airbags are sold to repair shops or online. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to these thefts to come forward and contact the police at 410-313-STOP or via email at HCPDCrimeTips@howardcountymd.gov.