Boston/ Crime & Emergencies
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Published on October 03, 2024
"Robbin Hood" Ringleader Sentenced to 10 Years for Catalytic Converter Theft Operation in MassachusettsSource: Massachusetts State Police

The ringleader behind a widespread catalytic converter theft operation, Rafael Davila, known in some circles as "Robbin Hood," has been sentenced to 10 years in prison. In a federal court in Boston, Davila received the sentence after pleading guilty to a list of charges including conspiracy to transport stolen property, bank theft, and money laundering. According to a release from the U.S. Attorney's Office, the takedown of his criminal network has led to a significant decrease in catalytic converter thefts in Massachusetts.

Following Davila's arrest in April 2023 alongside six others, incidents of catalytic converter theft dramatically decreased, from hundreds during the nine months prior to only nine reported thefts in the 18 months after. This change was likely influenced by dismantling the crew responsible for the thefts from nearly 500 vehicles across Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Davila was also directed to pay approximately $157,000 in restitution and to quickly fulfill 75 hours of community service at a food pantry.

Davila's arrest and subsequent convictions have enabled the authorities to seize assets tied to his criminal endeavors. Among the forfeited items were a Chevrolet Suburban, an Acura MDX, multiple motorcycles, dirt bikes, and jet skis. These were either bought with the proceeds of his convictions or were linked to the money laundering schemes he admitted to being a part of.

The scope of Davila's criminal activities extended beyond catalytic converters to include the robbery of jewelry stores and the theft of ATMs. The U.S. Attorney's Office suggests that there might be numerous other thefts connected to Davila's operation that have either gone unreported or have not yet been identified.