Deputies break up chop shop operation, find a unique treasure hidden among parts

CARUTHERS, Calif. (KFSN) -- Deputies broke up a chop-shop operation in Caruthers. Among all the car parts a vintage car, completely intact.

The Fresno County Sheriff's Department has made three arrests in the investigation. Germaine Fuller, Thomas Roland the Second, and Thomas Roland the Third.

Deputies said it all started with a stolen Chevelle, that theft led them to this spot. Investigators found car parts scattered all over the property along with another unique find. A 1968 Mercury Cougar completely intact and reported stolen from Oakland in 1991.

Investigators said all three men have been arrested for the same crime before. "They've all been arrested for chop shops in the past, what's interesting is Germain Fuller is on probation for chop shop arrest, Thomas Roland was arrested in the past for operation a chop shop at this very same address back in 2006, and his son was arrested I think just a couple years ago for chop shop as well,' said Tony Botti, Fresno County Sheriff's Office.

Investigators are carefully surveying every part.

The three suspects could face chop shop and stolen vehicle charges.

Police also found a marijuana grow in the house which could lead to more charges.