2 Arrested After Crashing In Stolen Vehicle, Found With Catalytic Converter Theft Tools: West Haven PD

WEST HAVEN, CT — Two New York men were arrested early Friday morning after police said they crashed in a stolen vehicle after fleeing an incident in West Haven and were found in possession of tools involved with catalytic converter thefts.

Police responded around 12:40 a.m. on March 13 to the area of York Street and Campbell Avenue in West Haven on the report of motor vehicle tampering.

Arriving officers saw a white 2019 Dodge Durango SRT, which police said was later determined to have been stolen out of Teaneck Township, New Jersey. Officers tried to stop the vehicle, but police said it fled at a high rate of speed.

“Officers deployed stop sticks and were successful in deflating two of the vehicle’s tires,” police wrote in a news release. “The stolen Dodge Durango continued southbound onto Interstate 95 before the pursuit was terminated.

“Connecticut State Police later located the stolen vehicle after it crashed in the area of Exit 25 on Interstate 95 southbound. Both occupants were located and detained by the Connecticut State Police and the Bridgeport Police Department.”

West Haven police responded to the scene, took both men into custody, and impounded the stolen Dodge Durango for evidentiary purposes, according to police.

“Officers also observed in plain view numerous items commonly associated with catalytic converter thefts, including a vehicle jack, an electric Sawzall, and multiple Sawzall blades,” police wrote.

Police said both men — 25-year-old Jancarlos Castillo of New York City, New York, and 24-year-old Jeffrey Jimenez of Bronx, New York — were charged with numerous criminal and motor vehicle offenses and were held on bond.

“The West Haven Police Department remains committed to combating catalytic converter thefts and other related crimes throughout the city, as these offenses pose serious quality-of-life issues for residents,” police wrote. “This incident highlights the importance of strong partnerships and communication between law enforcement agencies. When departments work together, we are able to respond quickly, share information effectively, and bring offenders into custody while keeping our communities safe.”