Two Arrested After Active Chop Shop Discovered In Norco; $1.8 Million In Stolen Vehicles Recovered
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.
During the operation, investigators located an active chop shop in the 1600 block of Third Street in Norco.
Authorities recovered approximately 50 stolen vehicles and vehicle components, including motorcycles, passenger vehicles, trailers and utility terrain vehicles (UTVs). Officials estimated the recovered property is valued at more than $1.8 million.
Investigators arrested Brian Stump, 46, and Kelsey Jones, 29, both of Norco. They were booked 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,” CHP Chief Tariq Johnson said. “Operations like this one demonstrate our commitment to dismantling those criminal networks, recovering stolen property and holding offenders accountable.”
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information about the case is encouraged to contact Investigator Michael Eshleman or Investigator Matt Ambriz with the Riverside Auto-Theft Interdiction Detail (RAID) at (951) 955-2770.
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