Authorities Make Arrest in Auto Thefts
On 01/30/2025 the Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force, with the assistance of the Joliet Police Department, conducted a search warrant at a residence located in the 1500 block of California Avenue.
During the investigation, TCAT Agents located 30 vehicles in the rear of the residence. The backyard of the property was utilized as an automotive salvage yard, with Facebook Marketplace serving as the platform for selling automotive parts.
Of the 30 vehicles located in the yard, TCAT Agents discovered 11 stolen motor vehicles, a stolen trailer, and a stolen Kubota tractor. TCAT Agents also located multiple devices commonly used to roll back odometers and program new keys.
The property owner, 38-year-old Oluwafemi Malachi, has been charged with one count of aggravated possession of a stolen motor vehicle and 11 counts of possession of stolen motor vehicles.
Malachi was processed at the Joliet Police Department and released on a Notice to Appear. Further charges are anticipated.
The Tri-County Auto Theft Task Force expresses its gratitude to the Joliet Police Department, the Joliet 911 Communication Center, and Rendels Towing for their support during this operation.