Laptop used to program, steal more than 100 cars

Houston police say they've arrested two men accused of using pirated computer software to steal more than 100 vehicles that likely ended up in Mexico.

Authorities say 24-year-old Michael Arce and 22-year-old Jesse Zelaya focused on new Jeep and Dodge vehicles, which attract big money on the black market in Mexico. The men allegedly used a laptop computer to reprogram the targeted vehicles' electronic security.

Arce's lawyer didn't return a message seeking comment Friday. Court records show Zelaya doesn't yet have an attorney.

Both were arrested last weekend driving a stolen Jeep Grand Cherokee. Police say their months-long investigation was aided by home-surveillance video showing someone with a laptop walking up to a parked Jeep and quickly driving away.

Zelaya has a court appearance Wednesday. Arce is set to appear in court Aug. 26.