Multiple travelers at the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport in Upstate New York have fallen victim to a rental car theft ring, according to authorities. Since the beginning of the year, nine vehicles have been stolen from the airport, with eight of those being rental cars.
The thieves, posing as rental car employees, approached customers as they were returning their vehicles and asked for the keys. One stolen vehicle even belonged to an airport employee parked in the rental lot.
Authorities have managed to recover eight of the stolen cars, while the most recent theft occurred on March 16, 2024. Four individuals have been arrested in connection with these thefts: Breanna Brummond, 33; Nicholas Morales, 32; and Esu Edwards, 43. These suspects allegedly used the stolen vehicles to commit crimes in Rochester and Irondequoit. They have been charged with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property. A fourth person has also been arrested, but their identity and charges have not yet been released.
In response to these incidents, the airport has implemented new security measures to prevent future thefts. Airport Director Andy Moore stated that they have not experienced any recent thefts since implementing these measures. The airport is working closely with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and the car rental companies to ensure the safety of travelers and their vehicles.
