Biggest Auto Theft Bust in E. Tennessee

East Tennessee authorities are calling a new auto theft bust -- one of the most prolific chop-shop operations EVER busted in this region.

According to a Knoxville newspaper Friday, "The Cocke County organized crime ring may have stolen up to 1,000 vehicles over the past decade." The "News Sentinel" reports the so-called Hawk Organization was a mob-like organization that not only took cars, but also trafficked drugs in and around places you and your family have likely visited.

The group's favorite targets to steal -- then chop and hoc the high demand and high dollar cars and SUV's,  reportedly included Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, the Bristol Motor Speedway and big malls in and around the Knoxville area.