NORCO, Calif. (VVNG.com) — A months-long vehicle theft investigation led by the Riverside Auto-Theft Interdiction Detail (RAID) resulted in the discovery of an active chop shop, the recovery of approximately 50 stolen vehicles and vehicle components valued at more than $1.8 million, and the arrest of two Norco residents.
According to a written statement, the investigation began in April 2026 after a motorcycle was reported stolen in the city of Canyon Lake. As the investigation progressed, RAID investigators identified an organized crime group believed to be responsible for multiple vehicle thefts throughout Southern California.
On July 29, investigators served 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…