Atlanta Police Bust Major Auto-Theft Operation, Recover Stolen Police Gear and Firearms

Investigators with the Atlanta Police Department executed a major search warrant earlier this month that led to the recovery of stolen police equipment, firearms, drugs, and the detention of multiple suspects tied to a long-running auto-theft investigation.

On January 15, 2025, APD’s Larceny from Auto (LFA) Unit served a search warrant at 320 Fairburn Road, Apartment H5, as part of an ongoing probe into a series of vehicle break-ins affecting neighborhoods across Atlanta. The operation was a coordinated, multi-unit effort involving APD SWAT, APEX, ACE, Robbery, Gangs, Zone 3 and Zone 4 Field Investigation Teams, along with the Clark Atlanta University Police Department.

During the search, investigators recovered a large cache of stolen and illegal items, including stolen police equipment, 11 firearms, three tasers, three firearm switches, approximately 10.85 ounces of MDMA, and 87 grams of marijuana. Authorities also discovered young children living inside the apartment, prompting a referral to Georgia Division of Family and Children Services to ensure their safety.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives was notified due to the recovery of firearm switches, which are illegal under federal law. Investigators are also pursuing gang-related charges connected to the case.

Police say the Fairburn Road location has been identified as a recurring hotspot for larceny-from-auto activity, with multiple investigations linking stolen electronics and vehicles to the apartment complex. In recent cases, a rented Hyundai and a stolen Kia were both traced back to Apartment H5, helping detectives establish probable cause for the warrant.

In total, eight individuals were detained, and numerous pieces of evidence were seized as the investigation continues. Police say additional charges are possible as detectives analyze the recovered items and follow up on related cases.