Chop shop discovered in Bakersfield, two arrested

BAKERSFIELD, California — Detectives from the Kern County Auto Theft Task Force (KernCATT) uncovered a chop shop in Bakersfield, leading to the arrest of two men.Israel Cruz, 39, and Edgar Gonzalez, 38, were apprehended after KernCATT detectives located a stolen vehicle and pursued a suspect on foot into a fenced area. During the chase, detectives discovered a second stolen vehicle being dismantled, with another suspect working on it. Both suspects attempted to flee but were quickly captured, according to the California Highway Patrol.The suspects face multiple charges, including operating a chop shop, vehicle theft, possession of stolen vehicles, and resisting arrest. KernCATT is a collaborative effort involving the California Highway Patrol, Bakersfield Police Department, and the Kern County Sheriff's Office, dedicated to reducing vehicle theft and related crimes in Kern County.The California Highway Patrol emphasized its mission to provide the highest level of safety, service, and security.