Detectives are investigating the theft of a dump truck in Duval County uncovered a larger operation in Tampa on Tuesday, where they say a man was altering vehicle identification numbers. A search of the property led to the discovery of eight stolen dump trucks.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, investigators found Olansy Marrero, 40, working on the vehicle at a business on the 4700 block of North Hubert Avenue. After securing a search warrant, authorities examined the property and nearby areas, recovering multiple stolen trucks.
Marrero faces several felony charges, including grand theft and operating a chop shop, officials said.
"These thefts didn't just hurt business owners from across Florida and the Southeast, but they impacted families, employees, and construction projects," Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. "We're committed to those who help build up our community and will come after anyone who tries to tear it down through theft and illegal operations."
The investigation remains ongoing.
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