Two men from the Bronx accused of stealing catalytic converters in Lindenhurst sparked a high-speed chase early Saturday that ended in nearby woods, according to Suffolk County police. Officers used stop sticks to blow out the SUV's tires during the pursuit, and the men were arrested after bolting into the trees on foot. One officer suffered a broken bone while chasing the suspects and is expected to undergo emergency surgery.
According to News 12 New York, investigators identified the suspects as Henry Cruz and Luis Acosta, both from the Bronx, and say they are accused of swiping several catalytic converters in Lindenhurst before officers followed their SUV onto the Southern State Parkway. Police deployed stop sticks and flattened the vehicle's tires, and the two men allegedly ditched the disabled SUV and ran into the woods before being taken into custody. News 12 reports that the pair face charges including assault on an officer, auto stripping, criminal mischief and resisting arrest, and that the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office is examining whether they are connected to additional thefts in the area.
Why converters are a target
Catalytic converters contain small amounts of platinum-group metals that can bring in serious money on the resale market, and thefts have climbed across the region. Law enforcement agencies have urged vehicle owners to take basic precautions, such as parking in well-lit spots, installing shields or alarms and, when possible, making parts traceable. The New York State DMV has promoted etching kits and dealer programs as one way to mark converters so that stolen parts are easier for investigators to track.
Charges and investigation
Cruz and Acosta were charged with assault on an officer, auto stripping, criminal mischief and resisting arrest, and the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office is probing whether they are tied to other converter thefts in the area, according to News 12 New York. As of the initial reports, prosecutors had not publicly announced any additional filings, and court dates were not immediately available.
What residents can do
Police are urging anyone with information about the Lindenhurst thefts or similar incidents to contact Suffolk County police and to report suspicious activity to 911. Drivers are being advised to park in well-lit or secure areas, install converter shields or vibration alarms and get converters etched or otherwise marked, steps the New York State DMV and local departments have promoted to reduce thefts and improve the odds of recovering stolen parts.
