JOLIET, IL — An automotive salvage yard on the east side of the city became the focus of a significant investigation on [insert date], leading to the arrest of the facility’s owner, Oluwafemi Malachi, 38.
The Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force, in collaboration with the Joliet Police Department, executed a search warrant at a residence located on the 1500 block of California Avenue. During the operation, investigators discovered 30 vehicles on the property, which was being used as a salvage yard.
Of the 30 vehicles, 11 were identified as stolen, along with a stolen trailer and a tractor. Authorities also found various devices used to roll back vehicle odometers, a practice commonly associated with fraudulent vehicle sales.
Malachi now faces multiple charges, including 11 counts of possession of stolen motor vehicles. He was released after receiving a Notice to Appear, though additional charges are anticipated as the investigation continues.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to combat vehicle theft and fraud, with further developments expected as the investigation progresses.
