Battle Creek, MI – Authorities in Calhoun County say a multi-jurisdictional investigation has uncovered a large-scale high-end auto theft and parts ring spanning several Michigan communities, resulting in the recovery of vehicles and property valued at about $200,000. Several arrests are pending.
According to the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began after deputies in Sheridan Township spotted a suspicious vehicle on Saturday. They confirmed with its registered owner that the vehicle had been stolen without their knowledge. A second stolen vehicle from the same owner was found at the same location.
Deputies then went to the victim’s Marengo Township residence, where they found signs of a significant break-in. The victim reported that two other vehicles had been stolen earlier in the week. One of those vehicles was later located at another Sheridan Township residence, where deputies executed a search warrant. The other was found within Albion city limits by an Albion Department of Public Safety officer, who detained the driver for questioning.
Further interviews led investigators to identify seven sites linked to the theft ring. Search warrants were carried out at two residences, with stolen property recovered in Parma Township, Springport Township in Jackson County, Sheridan Township, and Marengo Township.
Seven suspects have been identified, with warrants being sought on charges including breaking and entering, receiving and concealing stolen property, operating a chop shop, tampering with vehicle identification numbers, and larceny of power.
The investigation involved assistance from multiple agencies, including Michigan State Police, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Springport Township Police Department, Albion Department of Public Safety, and Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi Tribal Police.
Authorities say the case remains active, and anyone with information is urged to contact Det. Pignataro at 269-781-0880 or report anonymously via Silent Observer at 269-964-3888.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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