Memphis, Tennessee, January 6, 2026
In a recent operation, the Memphis Police Department, aided by the Auto Theft Task Force and the U.S. Marshals Service, shut down an illegal chop shop and arrested two suspects involved in vehicle theft. The operation resulted in the recovery of a stolen car, engines, and several stripped vehicle parts, highlighting law enforcement’s commitment to improving community safety.
Memphis, Tennessee: Significant Chop Shop Bust Leads to Two Arrests
Memphis, Tennessee – A recent operation led by the Memphis Police Department, in partnership with the MPD Auto Theft Task Force and the U.S. Marshals Service, successfully dismantled an illegal chop shop and arrested two individuals implicated in vehicle theft activities. This action reinforces the city’s ongoing commitment to combating auto theft and enhancing community safety.
Details of the Operation
On December 30, 2025, at around 7:00 a.m., law enforcement executed search warrants at two locations: the 3700 block of Canary Cove West and the 4200 block of Tonawanda Street. The operation resulted in the recovery of:
- A stolen 2011 Dodge Challenger
- Two engines
- Multiple vehicle parts stripped from stolen vehicles
Chop shops play a critical role in the auto theft ecosystem by allowing stolen vehicles to be dismantled for parts, which are then sold illegally. The closure of this chop shop disrupts a vital supply chain that perpetuates vehicle theft across Memphis, showcasing the effectiveness of organized law enforcement efforts.
Arrests Made
As a result of this operation, two individuals were taken into custody:
- Anthony Burns (20): Charged with Burglary, three counts of Theft of Property ($10,000–$60,000), and Chop Shop Law violations.
- Kyla Burns (18): Charged with two counts of Theft of Property ($10,000–$60,000) and Chop Shop Law violations.
Background on Chop Shop Operations
Chop shops contribute significantly to the culture of auto theft, allowing stolen vehicles to be dismantled for parts, which creates a vicious cycle of theft and property crime. Dismantling such operations not only mitigates the immediate effects of auto theft but also serves as a deterrent for future crimes by disrupting the underlying economic incentives. The Memphis Police Department continues to be vigilant in its efforts to combat vehicle theft and related crimes, reaffirming their commitment to community safety and order.
Community Engagement and Public Safety
Community involvement plays a crucial role in reducing crime rates. Authorities encourage residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that could be related to vehicle theft. By fostering a culture of awareness and cooperation between law enforcement and the community, Memphis can work collectively towards maintaining safety and security within the neighborhoods.
Contact Information
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the Memphis Police Department. For more information, you can reach them at:
- Public Safety Building: 170 N. Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103
- Emergency: 911
- Non-Emergency: 901-545-COPS
- TTY: 901-543-2709
Key Features of the Operation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Operation Date | December 30, 2025 |
| Locations Searched | 3700 block of Canary Cove West and 4200 block of Tonawanda Street |
| Items Recovered | Stolen 2011 Dodge Challenger, two engines, multiple vehicle parts |
| Individuals Arrested | Anthony Burns (20) and Kyla Burns (18) |
| Charges | Burglary, Theft of Property ($10,000–$60,000), Chop Shop Law violations |
| Collaborating Agencies | MPD Auto Theft Task Force, U.S. Marshals Service |
FAQ
- What is a chop shop?
- A chop shop is an illegal operation where stolen vehicles are dismantled, and their parts are sold, fueling further thefts across the city.
- What charges were brought against Anthony Burns and Kyla Burns?
- Anthony Burns (20) was charged with Burglary, three counts of Theft of Property ($10,000–$60,000), and Chop Shop Law violations. Kyla Burns (18) was charged with two counts of Theft of Property ($10,000–$60,000) and Chop Shop Law violations.
- How does dismantling a chop shop help reduce auto theft?
- By shutting down chop shops, authorities disrupt a significant supply chain that supports auto theft, leading to a reduction in future theft activities citywide.
- How can I report suspicious activities related to vehicle theft?
- If you have information about suspicious activities, contact the Memphis Police Department’s non-emergency line at 901-545-COPS or visit the Public Safety Building at 170 N. Main Street, Memphis, TN 38103.
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
