Albuquerque Man Sentenced for Bait Car Theft

Andrew Romero, 38, stole a bait car and discarded a stolen firearm during the getaway.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 3:39pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An Albuquerque man named Andrew Romero, 38, was sentenced to three years in prison for stealing a bait car in downtown Albuquerque in July 2025. Romero stole the car near Presbyterian Hospital and drove it back to his home in Los Lunas, tossing a stolen firearm out of the vehicle during the getaway before being caught by police.

Why it matters

Bait car programs are a common law enforcement tactic to catch car thieves in the act, and this case highlights how some offenders still attempt to evade these efforts. Albuquerque has struggled with high rates of property crime, including vehicle theft, making this a relevant issue for the local community.

The details

According to the report, Romero stole the bait car near Presbyterian Hospital in downtown Albuquerque in July 2025. During the getaway, he tossed a stolen firearm out of the vehicle before being apprehended by police at his home in Los Lunas.

  • Romero stole the bait car in July 2025.
  • Romero was sentenced in January 2026.

The players

Andrew Romero

A 38-year-old Albuquerque man who was sentenced to three years in prison for stealing a bait car.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This case underscores the ongoing challenge of property crime in Albuquerque, despite law enforcement efforts like bait car programs. It serves as a reminder that some offenders will still attempt to evade capture, even when faced with the risk of a lengthy prison sentence.