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NORCO, Calif. — A months-long investigation by the Riverside Auto-Theft Interdiction Detail (RAID) uncovered an active chop shop, recovered dozens of stolen vehicles and vehicle parts, and led to the arrest of two suspects.
In April 2026, RAID investigators began an investigation into the theft of a motorcycle reported in the city of Canyon Lake. As the investigation progressed, investigators identified an organized crime group responsible for multiple vehicle thefts across Southern California.
On July 29, RAID investigators executed multiple property-related search warrants in Norco and Corona, with assistance from the California Highway Patrol Inland Division Investigative Services Unit, the San Bernardino County Auto Theft Task Force, the Lake Elsinore Special Enforcement Team, the Riverside County Major Crimes Unit, the Riverside County Gang Task Force, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau.
While serving the search warrants, investigators discovered an active chop shop in the 1600 block of Third Street in Norco. By the end of the operation, they had recovered approximately 50 stolen vehicles and vehicle components, including motorcycles, passenger vehicles, trailers, and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), with an estimated value exceeding $1.8 million.
Investigators arrested Brian Stump, 46, and Kelsey Jones, 29, both of Norco, and booked them on charges including operating a chop shop, vehicle theft, multiple counts of possessing stolen vehicles, and possession of narcotics.
“While vehicle thefts have declined across California, organized theft rings continue to pose significant threat to our communities,” said CHP Chief Tariq Johnson. “Operations like this one demonstrate our commitment to dismantling those criminal networks, recovering stolen property and holding offenders accountable.”
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about this case is encouraged to contact Investigator Michael Eshleman or Investigator Matt Ambriz at the Riverside Auto-Theft Interdiction Detail (RAID) at (951) 955-2770.
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