FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – A scheme to steal a fleet of rental cars from Hertz at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport has led to the arrest of a former employee. Savannah Harsha Phillips, accused of facilitating the theft of 12 vehicles, now faces multiple charges.
Phillips, who operated the security gate, is alleged to have assisted three men in making off with the cars. Security footage reportedly shows the men selecting cars and passing through the gate under Phillips’ watch.
The theft was executed within an hour, unnoticed until Hertz received reports from other states about the stolen cars being used in criminal activities. Phillips resigned after an altercation with management, and she now faces 13 charges, including grand theft.
Hertz estimates the financial damage at nearly $60,000 and is reviewing its security systems. This incident highlights the potential vulnerabilities businesses face from within.
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to identify additional participants in the theft. They encourage anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward.