Stolen Catalytic Converter Recovered In Carlsbad, 2 Arrests Made

CARLSBAD, CA — Two Carlsbad Police Officers arrested a pair of Los Angeles-area suspects after finding them with hand saws and a freshly cut catalytic converter, the department reported Tuesday.

The officers, on a special catalytic converter detail, were on patrol in the La Costa Avenue and Rancho Santa Fe Road area, according to reports.

They conducted a traffic stop to find the out of area driver and passenger with the implements of removing and stealing catalytic converters "in plain sight," the department said in a recent news release.

"The officers arrested the pair for possession of stolen property and possession of burglary tools with the catalytic converter enhancement," they reported. The names of the suspects were not yet released, however both were residents of Los Angeles County, according to reports.

Catalytic converter theft has been a prominent problem across Southern California, and in Carlsbad, for over a year. The reason is due to the valuable metals inside the converter that can be stripped and sold, Carlsbad Community Relations Manager Jodee Reyes said.

The most targeted car remains the Toyota Prius, however multiple makes and models are sought by thieves, Reyes said.

If you wish to protect your vehicle, consult your local mechanic to install a Cat Shield, Cat Clamp, Cat Lock or to engrave your VIN or license plate number onto the converter.

Other methods of vehicle protection include parking carefully, preferably in the garage, parking near lights when garages are not available, install motion lights near your car, and park as close to your home as possible. Surveillance cameras that alert to your phone can help, and always report suspicious activity and crime when it is occurring any time night or day by calling 911.

"Report suspicious activity and noise, even in the middle of the night, immediately," they said. "We will be out in neighborhoods to help."