A joint police investigation into a rash of stolen vehicles and property crime has resulted in six arrests.
Chatham-Kent police and the Elgin-Middlesex Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) recently partnered up to look into an increase in break-and-enters, property theft, and stolen vehicles affecting both municipalities.
After several months of investigation, CK police said they were able to execute search warrants at home in Glencoe and Thamesville on March 26.
According to police, the search in Glencoe turned up methamphetamine, multiple firearms, and a stolen pickup truck that had its vehicle identification number (VIN) altered and replaced.
Four people were arrested at the residence, including a 35-year-old man and three women between the ages of 34 and 58.
In Thamesville, police said a "chop shop" was located in an outbuilding on the Victoria Road property.
Inside the building was another stolen pickup truck that was in the process of having its VIN changed, police said. Additionally, police reported finding truck parts from other vehicles that had been reported stolen across Southwestern Ontario.
Police also found cocaine, fentanyl, and hydromorphone on the property.
A 62-year-old and a 38-year-old were arrested on April 8 as a result of that search.
Police said more charges are likely to be laid as the investigation continues.
Anyone with information is asked to contact CK police at 519-352-1234, Elgin County OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).