Norfolk Auto Shop Is Subject of Crime Investigation

A local auto repair shop is currently being investigated by Norfolk police officials for its suspected role in the thefts of dozens of vehicles in the surrounding area. Accoring to local news reports, the Tidewater Auto Theft Group started watching Chino’s Auto Repair shop more than seven months ago.

A search warrant was recently issued for the repair shop, which is also known as Tony’s Auto Repair. The business that offered towing and vehicle repair services is suspected of using its tow trucks to steal cars from parking lots in shopping centers and cars parked along city streets.

The stolen vehicles were allegedly taken to a warehouse and striped for parts. The unused metal that was left on the vehicles were allegedly sold for scrap at metal recycling centers. The owner of the business, Anthony Bates, has not yet been located by the police. However, according to reports, one of the business’s tow truck drivers has been arrested in conjunction with the alleged thefts.