Crime & Safety

2 Arrested, Accused Of Catalytic Converter Theft In Santa Monica

Police said they found three catalytic converters, saws and other tools inside the car.

SANTA MONICA, CA — Santa Monica Police arrested two men early Wednesday morning on suspicion of stealing catalytic converters in the city.

The Santa Monica Police Department said they received two calls at about 3 a.m. Wednesday morning, where residents reported hearing sawing and metal being cut. Residents reported hearing loud noises in the area of Highland Avenue and Ocean Park Boulevard, police said.

Officers sent to the area conducted a traffic stop on a car and said they found three catalytic converters, saws and other tools inside.

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Both suspects, who were identified as Andrew Diaz and Bryan Lima, were arrested on suspicion of grand theft and transported to Santa Monica Jail, according to authorities.

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