The discovery of a chop-shop in Hesperia, California, has shocked the local community and law enforcement officials. What started as a routine disturbance call for Deputy Contreras of the Hesperia Police Department quickly escalated into a major investigation that uncovered a criminal operation involving multiple stolen vehicles.
On the evening of August 18, 2024, Deputy Contreras responded to a report of a subject with a firearm in the 10600 block of Eleventh Avenue. Upon arriving at the scene, Deputy Contreras made a startling discovery – several stolen vehicles hidden in the rear of the residence. This led to the identification of the location as an active chop shop, where stolen vehicles were being dismantled and repurposed for illegal activities.
Further investigation revealed that the stolen vehicles belonged to various individuals, including one party involved in the initial disturbance call. With the assistance of auto-theft investigators, multiple stolen vehicles were recovered from the chop shop, shedding light on the extent of the criminal operation.
The suspects involved in the chop shop, identified as Stephanie Lee and Adrian Delacruz, attempted to flee the scene before law enforcement arrived. Stephanie Lee, a 33-year-old resident of Victorville, was later apprehended in a stolen vehicle and taken into custody. She faces a slew of charges, including possession of a stolen vehicle, vehicle theft, owning a chop shop, and vehicle theft with priors. Adrian Delacruz, a 31-year-old resident of Hesperia, was contacted later but released pending charges with the District Attorney’s Office.
The Hesperia Police Department is urging anyone with information about this case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. They can be reached at (760) 947-1500 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or through their website at www.wetip.com.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance and cooperation in combating crime. By working together with law enforcement, residents can help ensure the safety and security of their neighborhoods. Stay informed and stay connected by joining the local newsgroup on Facebook with over 165,000 members. Like the Facebook page, and follow updates on Instagram and Twitter for the latest developments in this case and more.