LMPD says south Louisville chop shop probe uncovered multi-state theft network, weapons, drugs and key-fob device

Investigation spans four locations and multiple jurisdictions

Louisville Metro Police Department leaders said an investigation into an alleged chop shop operation in south Louisville has led to five arrests and the recovery of vehicles, parts, firearms and drugs across four locations in the city.

Police described the case as an organized, coordinated operation in which stolen vehicles were dismantled and components redistributed. Detectives said they identified stolen cars and parts connected to theft reports from several states as well as parts tied to Canada, indicating a cross-border supply chain that extended beyond Louisville.

What investigators say was recovered

Police said the searches produced evidence they believe links the locations to vehicle theft and dismantling activity, including a device used to steal cars by reprogramming key fobs. Investigators also reported recovering guns and drugs during the operation.

LMPD estimated the total value of recovered stolen property at about $650,000. Investigators said the inquiry is ongoing and additional arrests are possible.

• Four locations searched across Louisville, police said
• Stolen vehicles and parts tied to thefts from multiple states and Canada
• Firearms, drugs, and a key-fob reprogramming device recovered, police said
• Estimated $650,000 in stolen property recovered

Arrests announced and charges expected to develop

Police identified those arrested as Alexis Goodman, Amanda Guerrero, William Hutchens, Joseph Probus and Andres Gonzalez. LMPD said the investigation remains active and has not ruled out further charges or additional suspects.

Technology’s role and broader enforcement questions

LMPD said automated license-plate reader technology was used as an investigative tool in tracking stolen vehicles connected to the case. Police have increasingly relied on such systems in vehicle-theft investigations, where quick movement of stolen cars, swapping of parts and use of reprogramming tools can compress the time between theft and resale or dismantling.

Police said additional arrests could follow as detectives continue to analyze evidence recovered during the searches.

How the case fits into a continuing pattern

The announcement comes as Louisville has seen repeated investigations involving alleged chop shop activity and trafficking in stolen vehicle parts over the past year, with law enforcement citing tips, search warrants and multi-agency coordination as common pathways to identifying dismantling operations. In such cases, investigators typically focus on supply routes for stolen vehicles, the resale market for high-demand components, and tools used to defeat vehicle anti-theft systems.

LMPD has not released the precise locations searched in the March 4 operation or detailed how the five suspects are alleged to have participated. Police said the investigation is continuing.