A Banning man was arrested on Monday after police say they found evidence he was running a chop shop and weapons charges after police discovered dozens of firearms.
Deputies from the Cabazon Station were dispatched to a report of a stolen John Deere Tractor in an unincorporated area of Banning about 10 am, according to a news release from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Deputies located the tractor as it pulled into a residence in the on Ruiz Road and conducted a traffic stop. The driver, Daniel Marcotte, was detained without incident.
Deputies located an additional stolen vehicle nearby. A search warrant was served at Marcotte’s residence. 16 stolen vehicles, 45 rifles, 18 handguns, and evidence of a chop shop were located in and around Marcotte’s residence. All stolen property was recovered, and all identified victims were contacted.
Marcotte, 43 years-old from Banning, was arrested for weapons violations, possession of stolen property, and operation of a chop shop.
Anyone with information regarding the investigation is encouraged to contact the Cabazon Sheriff’s Station at 951-922-7100.
