Chandler PD: Crime ring operating inside Valley pawn shops

CHANDLER, AZ - Seven men are in custody Wednesday for operating a criminal syndicate that allowed crooks to easily sell their stolen loot, according to a Chandler Police Department officer.

While details are limited, Detective Seth Tyler confirmed to ABC15 the arrests were the result of a 4-month investigation into some pawn shops operated by the seven men.

According to Tyler, the men face several charges including attempted trafficking in stolen property, operating a criminal syndicate, illegal control of an enterprise and conspiracy.

The men would apparently allow known criminals to repeatedly bring the business gold and jewelry and pawn it for quick cash without asking for identification and promising to quickly melt or "flip" the jewelry.

The exact locations of the businesses in question have not been released and it's unknown if any stolen property was recovered.

Tyler said complete details of the operation and the charges will be released Thursday.