HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office and the Pennsylvania State Police have filed charges against 15 people and two Lebanon-based businesses in connection with an alleged “chop shop” and related criminal activities. The allegations include vehicle theft, title washing, fraudulent inspections, and identity theft.
The investigation, conducted with assistance from the 52nd Statewide Investigating Grand Jury, revealed two interconnected operations. One is led by Angel Vidal, whose alleged activities centered around a chop shop at his home in Lebanon. Prosecutors further accused El Fuerte Auto Sales and El Fuerte Tire & Auto, operated by Yonathan Peguero-Rodriguez and Johandeiry Bonilla, of aiding in the illegal enterprise.
Officials allege the operations generated over $500,000 in profits. Charges include corrupt organizations, insurance fraud, bank fraud, and forgery, among others. Authorities claim Vidal’s operation dismantled stolen rental vehicles, altered them, and sold them below market value, often relying on falsified documents.
Meanwhile, El Fuerte businesses allegedly engaged in fraudulent vehicle inspections and falsified related records, compromising road safety.
“This complex scheme involved many different types of criminal behavior that directly victimized Pennsylvanians, or put drivers and passengers at risk by being in the path of vehicles that may have been unsafe,” said Attorney General Dave Sunday.
Vidal is reportedly already incarcerated at Northampton County Prison on similar allegations from a separate case.
Senior Deputy Attorney General Erik Olsen and Deputy Attorney General Jose Perez will lead the prosecution of these allegations. Officials stress that criminal charges are allegations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Further details about the investigation and proceedings are expected to develop as the case moves forward.
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