Three men have been arrested following an extensive investigation into a large-scale vehicle theft ring operating across multiple states and centered in Hillsborough County.
Between December 2025 and March 2026, Yoan Gonzalez Solorzano, 25, Javier Penate Berbe, 24, and Christien Ravi Bisnath, 31, targeted high-end vehicles from dealerships, auctions, and recent buyers across Florida and other states, stealing an estimated $388,000 in vehicles.
Once stolen, the vehicles were brought to Hillsborough County, where they were sold, dismantled for parts, or altered through fraudulent VIN swaps to conceal their identity and resell for profit.
Detectives identified and dismantled a chop shop in Riverview, recovering multiple stolen vehicles, including GMC Yukons, Cadillac Escalades, and a Dodge Charger.
Surveillance video from December 25, 2025, shows a 2021 white GMC Yukon Denali, valued at $68,000, being targeted on Causeway Boulevard in Tampa. A silver RAM is seen scouting the area before the Yukon is driven from the lot shortly after.
The stolen Yukon was later recovered at a Riverview property with different wheels, while its original custom rims had been placed on another vehicle.
“This operation was calculated and fueled by greed, targeting hardworking businesses and buyers across multiple communities,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “Thanks to the work of our detectives, this criminal enterprise has been shut down. If you profit from crime in Hillsborough County, you will be held accountable.”
All three suspects face multiple felony charges, including Grand Theft and Operating a Chop Shop.
This remains an ongoing investigation. Any further updates will come from the Public Affairs Office.
