Location: 6400 block of Road 38

Incident Date: 12/29/2015

Incident Time: 1645 hours

Case Number: 15-15927

City: Alpaugh

Posted by: Media Relations

On above date and time, Detectives from the Tulare County Regional Auto Theft Task Force responded to the above location regarding a possible chop shop operation.

Upon arrival, Detectives located a stolen Honda that was being cut and stripped,  and (2) tractors, and (1) large auto carrier cargo trailer. Detective’s located several items which are commonly used in chop shops lying on the ground near the stolen Honda Accord.  

Detectives recovered all vehicles with a total estimated value of $116,500. 

The older John Deere tractor, Model 7200, that was discovered on the property was found to be stolen from the Corcoran area.  The owner was contacted, and with proof of ownership the tractor was released back to the owner.  Recovery value was $10,000. 

A second 2012 John Deere tractor, Model 6430, was also located on the property.  This tractor was also found reported stolen from the Corcoran area on 12/06/15.  The owner was contacted, and with proof of ownership the tractor was released back to the owner.  Recovery value was $72,500. 

Other vehicles recovered on the property included a 42-foot 2008 Forrest River, Model Eliminator, vehicle box trailer reported stolen out of Bakersfield on 11/02/2015.  The Owner was identified and the trailer was returned.  Recovery value was $30,000.  

The recovered Blue Honda Accord, which had been cut in half and stripped, was reported stolen out of Exeter on 12/06/15.  Recovery value was $3,500.00.  

Total recovery for these cases $116,000.00. 

Detectives are currently investigating any and all leads to locate the suspect. 

Anyone with information is encouraged to call the Tulare County Sheriff’s Department at (559)733-6218 or send anonymous information by sending a text or email to TCSO@tipnow.com or call (559) 725-4194.