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Duo Ran Waterbury 'Chop Shop' To Dismantle Stolen Cars: Police

Two men have been arrested and charged with operating a "chop shop" to dismantle stolen cars and sell their parts, authorities said.

Ronal Breins (left) and Melvin Mendez

Ronal Breins (left) and Melvin Mendez

Photo Credit: Waterbury Police

Melvin Mendez, 33, and Ronal Breins, 34, were arrested after Waterbury officers uncovered the illegal operation during an investigation into stolen vehicles, police said.

Investigators executed a search warrant at a home's garage on East Street last week, where they discovered numerous parts from stolen vehicles. Among the findings were a full engine and transmission from a stolen Infiniti, which were being installed in a different Infiniti Q50, authorities said.

Both men are charged with larceny of a motor vehicle, criminal trover, operating a chop shop, and operating an unlicensed garage, according to Waterbury police.

They were released after each posted a $100,000 bond, officials said.

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