A Forsyth County man remains in jail after police said a tip led them to a “chop shop” at the man’s residence.
Charles Davis McClendon, 39, of the 5200 block of Hyde Road, was arrested Aug. 30. Charges include forgery in the second degree, theft by receiving a motor vehicle, owning and operating a chop shop, and narcotics possession.
A concerned citizen provided a tip to police that cars were being “chopped up and cut up with torches and saws” at the Hyde Road residence, according to Lt. Col. Gene Moss of the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office.
The Sheriff’s Office discovered a vehicle reported stolen out of Lumpkin County on Aug. 30 at the home, as well as three other vehicles that had been stolen since Aug. 16.
“Torches had been used to burn over the VINs (Vehicle Identification Numbers),” said Major Dan Jagoe. “This was a large operation. There were three out buildings filled with car parts and tools.”
Investigators spent two-and-a-half days searching and collecting evidence at the Hyde Road location. Jagoe added that the investigation is continuing and other charges and arrests could be made.
“This is just another example of a citizen being observant and knowing who their neighbors are and what is going on,” added Moss.
McClendon is being held in the Forsyth County Detention Center without bond until an appearance before a Superior Court judge.
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