Source: The Signal
Date: 04/20/2026 5:10pm

Article Summary:
Canyon Country Man Pleads Guilty in $23.9 Million Crime Tourism Burglary and Fraud Scheme
A Canyon Country man, Juan Carlos Thola-Duran, 59, pleaded guilty to federal charges for leading a “crime tourism” ring that facilitated South American theft groups responsible for at least $23.9 million in losses nationwide. Prosecutors say he used his Van Nuys car rental business to supply vehicles, fence stolen goods, launder money, and structure cash withdrawals to avoid reporting requirements; he faces up to 55 years in prison at his November sentencing. Several co-defendants have also pleaded guilty, while two others await trial.

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