An investigation into trailer chassis stolen from the Port of Los Angeles led to the arrest of one suspect and recovery of $600,000 worth of chassis believed stolen, authorities said Friday.
The suspect was identified as 25-year-old Denis Fuentes, a Gardena resident, the Los Angeles Police Department said. He was booked for suspicion of receiving stolen property. Additional arrests are expected.
For months, the LAPD and LA Port Police officers have been investigating multiple thefts of the chassis set aside for commercial truckers to use to move cargo, Port police said.
Suspected thieves would reface, alter and resell the stolen chassis as new, police said.
The investigation led to a lot in the 14500 block of South Avalon Boulevard in Gardena where 24 chassis believed stolen were recovered, police said.
“The Port of Los Angeles is the busiest port in the United States, so stopping this theft was important for everyone involved,” LA Port Police Lt. Rosario Ferrara said. “Our investigation into these activities continues to evolve, but we hope this arrest sends a message to other criminals targeting the Port complex.”