San Francisco police say a 19-year-old is behind a string of catalytic converter thefts targeting cars across the city. Officers arrested Deric Gonzalez‑Rodriguez on January 29 and booked him on multiple felony grand theft counts, according to the department. Investigators said many of the theft reports pointed back to the same white four‑door sedan, and they described the linked cases as open and active.
Burglary investigators and the Fugitive Recovery Enforcement Team said that the car, and where it traveled, became the backbone of the case. The department publicly shared related case numbers for anyone who might have additional information, according to the San Francisco Police Department. The post listed case numbers 250‑711‑354, 260‑004‑462, 260‑035‑768 and 250‑726‑331 and urged anyone with tips to contact the department.
Thanks to SFPD investigators, a prolific catalytic converter theft suspect has been arrested. Visit the link below to read more and get tips on how to prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen.
— San Francisco Police (@SFPD) March 9, 2026
READ MORE: https://t.co/RwPHZwAcg8 pic.twitter.com/ExAmMh9FDH
How investigators connected the thefts
Court records and local reporting indicate detectives focused on a single white Ford that appeared near several victim vehicles, then relied on surveillance footage and location data to connect that car to multiple thefts, as reported by San Francisco Public Safety News. That outlet reports the string of thefts stretched from late December through January and largely targeted Toyota Priuses.
Why this matters locally
Catalytic converter theft has turned into a lucrative side hustle for thieves because the parts are packed with valuable metals and can be sliced off in minutes. A Justice Department press release noted that California alone accounted for roughly 37% of converter theft claims during a nationwide takedown, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Local departments have leaned on camera technology and targeted ordinances to choke off resale markets, including a recent South San Francisco case where officers recovered freshly cut converters during a traffic stop and used ALPR hits to expand their investigation.
How to protect your car
Alongside the arrest announcement, SFPD shared a list of practical tips for drivers, according to the San Francisco Police Department. The department suggests parking in a garage or well lit area whenever possible, etching your VIN or license plate number onto the converter, installing motion sensing lights or cameras, and considering an anti theft shield for the part itself. Officers also warned residents not to chase or confront suspected thieves, noting that suspects may be armed, and urged anyone with relevant video or information to call 1‑415‑575‑4444 or text TIP411.
Charges and next steps
Gonzalez‑Rodriguez remains in custody and faces multiple felony and misdemeanor counts tied to incidents prosecutors say occurred between December 21, 2025 and January 19, according to San Francisco Public Safety News. Investigators say the broader probe is still active and are asking additional witnesses or victims to come forward so they can determine whether more thefts are connected.
