Theft ring steals truck chassis from Port of L.A. in million-dollar crime operation

LOS ANGELES (KTLA) — Authorities have arrested a man believed to be part of a crime operation that has been reselling commercial truck chassis stolen from the Port of Los Angeles.

Denis Fuentes, 25, of Gardena was taken into custody Wednesday following a joint investigation by the Los Angeles Port Police and the Los Angeles Police Department.

Fuentes was arrested at a facility on the 14500 block of South Avalon Boulevard in Gardena, where authorities also discovered 24 stolen units valued at approximately $600,000.

He was later booked into jail on suspicion of receiving stolen property.

Law enforcement officials said they believe he is part of a larger theft ring that has operated in the Port of L.A. for several months. It’s believed the suspects entered container terminals, stole chassis designated for commercial truckers to move cargo, and then resold them as new after altering any identifying details.

Investigators estimate the scheme may have generated several millions in stolen revenue.

“The Port of Los Angeles [is] the busiest port in the United States so stopping this theft was important for everyone involved,” said Los Angeles Port Police Lt. Rosario Ferrara. “Our investigation into these activities continues to evolve, but we hope this arrest sends a message to other criminals targeting the Port complex.”

Officials said the investigation remains ongoing, and additional arrests are expected.

Anyone with information about the investigation or other illegal thefts at the Port of L.A. is urged to to contact L.A. port police detectives at 310-732-3500. Anonymous tips can be provided online or by calling 800-222-8477.