Wasatch County authorities bust chop shop operation

SALT LAKE CITY — The Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office says three people have been arrested in connection to a chop shop operation.

On Sept. 20, according to a news release, deputies were called to 1719 E. Main Canyon Road near Wallsburg to look for a stolen vehicle. The vehicle, equipped with GPS, was taken from another county earlier in the day. 

Law enforcement personnel obtained a search warrant for the property. During the search, authorities discovered several vehicles, trailers, all-terrain vehicles, and power tools on the property.

Chop shop operation confirmed

With the assistance of the Utah Department of Motor Vehicles, deputies determined that all the vehicles were stolen.

Also, in the search of the property, deputies found illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia. Authorities also found tools “consistent with committing burglaries and thefts.”

Authorities apprehended Tyler Boyd James Hewitt, 32, of Wallsburg; Trista Roxanne Samson, 27, of Magna; and Trenton Bailey Gates, 27, of Centerville.

Hewitt was booked into jail for investigation of theft of an automobile, theft of property, and weapons offense. He was also booked for investigation of possession of a vehicle without a VIN, giving false information to an officer, obstruction of justice, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of a controlled substance. Authorities also say there are several warrants for his arrest.

Samson was booked into jail for investigation of theft of a stolen vehicle and property theft. Samson was also booked for investigation of possession of a vehicle without a VIN, giving false information to an officer, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of a controlled substance. Authorities also said there were several warrants for Samson’s arrest.

Gates was booked into jail for investigation of theft of a stolen vehicle and theft of property. Gates was also booked for investigation of possession of a vehicle without a VIN and giving false information to an officer. Additionally, Gates was also booked for obstructing justice, possession of paraphernalia, and possession of controlled substances. Authorities also say there are statewide warrants out for Gates’ arrest.

The release states that the charges are only a summary at this time. The investigation and processing of stolen property are ongoing. Authorities say the property being searched is more than 100 acres in size and could take several more days. 

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