'Leader' of Mission auto theft ring arraigned

MISSION, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The alleged ring leader of an auto theft ring in Mission is being arraigned today.

Michael Anthony Salazar, 33, of Mission, was arrested for stealing a 2020 GMC and a 2022 GMC.

Prior to Wednesday's arraignment, Salazar was arraigned for two prior arrests of theft of a motor vehicle with $100,000 bonds each time. He was also charged with unlawful possession of a criminal device and was issued a bond of $25,000.

Michael Anthony Salazar (Photo from Hidalgo County Jail Records)

He was officially charged with theft, a third-degree felony, on Wednesday and was issued a bond of $100,000.

In connection to this case, a woman identified as Leona Marie Walker was arrested by DPS on March 31. Walker was pulled her over in Donna with a stolen 2022 GMC Sierra. Authorities say she was attempting to cross the vehicle over to Mexico.