Police Target Stolen Auto Parts Online

HONOLULU -- Honolulu police issued a consumer alert on Friday about stolen car parts being sold online.

Honolulu police said young adults are stealing cars -- mostly Hondas, Mitsubishis and other street racing vehicles -- stripping them and selling the parts on the Internet.

Police arrested two people in the case. They said that more people are being investigated.

Samson Mak of Revision Audio knows firsthand the problem with stolen auto parts being sold on the Internet. It is cutting into his profit selling rims, he said.

"See, there're people who look, but don't buy, because we're asking for $2,800, which is a steal compared to spending about $4,000 brand new. But inside this forum, there are wheels that are about $500," Mak said, pointing to a Web site.

Honolulu police recently arrested two juveniles from Kalihi after they found stolen car parts being sold on a local Internet Web site.

Police said they may have uncovered a bigger problem.

"They are a group, they are under investigation, and our main concern here is that parents be aware where their kids are getting their parts from, or anyone who's buying parts off the Internet to make sure that it's a reputable dealer," Honolulu Police Department CrimeStoppers coordinator Kim Buffett said.

Revision Audio specializes in high-end auto modifications. Mak said even he has a tough time determining what is stolen and what is legally being sold on the Internet.

"There's no way to know where those things are coming from," Mak said.

Mak said legit items tend to have a more detailed description. You can also ask for a proof of purchase or original receipt. Police advise consumers to buy auto parts from reputable dealers.

Police warn if you are caught with stolen parts on your car, you can be arrested for detaining stolen property and your vehicle can be seized.