Ventura County Sheriff's Office arrested two suspects yesterday, charging them with catalytic converter theft, possessing burglary tools, and conspiracy in the City of Ojai, California.
According to the news report, the suspects aged 35, from Los Angeles, were in possession of burglary tools, a floor jack, and two catalytic converters. They also had outstanding warrants in Orange County. Since Monday, October 30, eight incidents of catalytic converter thefts have been reported in Ojai, hinting at a potential theft ring from Los Angeles. Nearby Cities of Thousand Oaks and Camarillo have also reported similar thefts.
In a proactive step, the Ojai Police Department has teamed up with local auto repair shops to introduce the "Etch and Catch" program. Participating shops offer free etching of license plate numbers and painting a Sheriff's star on customers' catalytic converters, as deterrents to thieves and aids to police investigations. Additional advice includes: secure parking, motion-activated lighting and cameras, and aftermarket catalytic converter anti-theft devices that suit vehicle type.
Community members and law enforcement agencies are urged to remain vigilant to stop the surge of catalytic converter theft. Residents are advised to report any doubts, such as slow-moving vehicles in neighbourhoods, unusual sounds at night, or strange behaviour around stationary vehicles.
